Dairy, is it only for strong bones?

By Kevann Jordan a Recent ASU Nutrition Student

Cows provide a great source of revenue for Arizona. According to Netstate.com “Arizona’s top five agricultural products are cattle and calves, lettuce, dairy products, cotton, and hay.” (http://www.netstate.com/economy/az_economy.htm)

But what is so great about dairy products? Why is animals milk so important for our health? The first thing we tend to think of when we hear dairy is calcium. Builds strong bones right? Well, milk also provides potassium, vitamin D and protein. Potassium plays a vital role in many of our body’s systems. One of the most important is to keep our hearts working.

 

It also helps with contracting of muscles and the conduction of signals through neurons. We can also get probiotics from dairy products such as yogurt, this allows us to have an extra support to our immune systems by providing good bacteria to help fight off infections and diseases. Dairy helps to keep our bodies running well by aiding in many different processes that occur within our bodies.

 

Dairy isn’t just about strong bones!

 

For more informational articles like this check out our Fill Your Plate Blog. Looking for some ideas for dinner? Check out our recipe section of the website.

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