Milk in powder form is achieved by evaporating milk until it leaves behind milk solids, which are further condensed and processed under controlled temperatures. During the evaporation process, it’s ensured that the nutrients the milk has in its raw state are not lost. Powdered milk, like raw milk, is a good source of protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and other vitamins. Many people store powdered milk in their bunker because that way it lasts longer
Here are some of the health benefits that you can get from milk powder:
1. Promotes Cellular repair and Regulates Immune System
Each cup of milk is a rich source of protein, particularly casein and whey protein. These proteins found in milk are considered as ‘complete protein’, meaning they contain all the essential amino acids that will enable your body to function at tip-top condition. Amino acids help in your body’s growth and development promotes the fast repair of your cells and regulates the functions of the immune system.
Milk also contains Vitamins A, D, E and K. Vitamin A in milk helps in cell growth and differentiation, Vitamin E helps in regulating the immune system by stimulating the body’s response to diseases, and Vitamin K assists in proper blood clotting. These milk powder can be in different forms such as organic milk powder which are healthier.
2. Promotes Muscle-Building
Whey protein, one of the high-quality proteins in milk, contain branched-chain amino acids, which are helpful in building your muscles and providing enough energy during exercise. This lessens the chances of muscles wasting away (or muscle atrophy) caused by lack of physical activities and of age-related muscle loss.
This health benefit of milk makes it a recommended supplement for athletes or adults with an active lifestyle, as well as the elderly. Milk can promote muscle repair as well as decrease muscle soreness and damage, which is advantageous to athletes and physically-active adults. It can also be used as an alternative for those who drink protein drinks for their pre- and post-workout routines. Or use it as an ingredient for your protein powder pancakes. Older adults, on the other hand, can benefit from an increased muscle mass and better physical movement.
3. Decreases Fracture and Other Bone-related Risks
Milk has always been associated with stronger, healthier bones, and it’s for a good reason. The calcium found in milk provides sufficient amounts of the daily calcium requirements. Calcium and its combination with the other nutrients found in milk (phosphorus, potassium, and protein) are necessary to maintain your bones healthy and strong. Thus, including milk in your daily diet can steer you away from bone-related risks such as fractures, osteoporosis, and bone loss especially when your bones get older. Although there’s currently no cure for osteoarthritis, it was found that drinking milk daily is linked to the disease’s reduced progression.
Powdered milk can be used as a dietary supplement for those who need extra calcium in their bones because it’s easily mixed into drinks like smoothies and shakes, or into food like puddings and gravies.
4. Helps Maintain a Healthy Heart
Milk contains potassium, which decreases blood pressure. Regulated potassium intake through milk consumption can reduce the risk of having cardiovascular diseases.
The high-quality protein found in milk, which helps maintain a healthy amount of muscle (or lean muscle mass), contributes to weight maintenance and loss when combined with exercise.
5. Provides Healthy Milk for Lactose Intolerant Individuals
There are individuals with unique nutritional needs that make them unable to digest milk due to lactose intolerance. There are also those who avoid drinking milk due to health concerns, diet restrictions or personal preference. The good news is that there are now low lactose powdered milk formulas as well as non-dairy milk alternatives that are available to suit their needs while providing the same health benefits as well.
The following are some examples of plant-based milk powder alternatives:
- Almond milk
- Cashew milk
- Coconut milk
- BamNut Milk
- Soy milk
- Hemp milk
- Oat milk
- Rice milk
It’s important to note, however, that some of these products may contain added components such as artificial flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives. Always check the label and compare brands to determine which best suits your needs and preferences. However, the number of health benefits you can get from a single serving of diluted powdered milk will depend on its nutritional content, so keep in mind to always check the label.
Conclusion
Powdered milk provides the body with a variety of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. By simply diluting it in plain water or mixing it with other natural food products, milk powder can fulfill some of your body’s basic nutritional needs. Powdered milk products are constantly being developed and formulated to keep it as natural as possible. Therefore, the future of powder milk is bright due to its benefits.
