Many people know that to supplement calcium, one should drink more milk, but the effect of calcium supplementation only shows up if you drink milk every day. If you drink it for one day and then take a three-day break, the effect of calcium supplementation will not be apparent. Let's take a look at the common misconceptions about drinking milk that you should be aware of!
Does drinking milk make you taller?
Drinking milk may help you grow taller. Milk is indeed rich in calcium, and some people who drink milk daily do get taller. However, others complain that their height doesn't change despite drinking milk every day. Whether drinking milk daily can make you taller largely depends on how well an individual's body absorbs the calcium in milk. Milk is an excellent source of calcium, and drinking it daily is beneficial for growth. However, if you want to grow taller, you can't rely solely on milk; you also need to supplement with a variety of other nutrients.
Who should not drink milk?
First, people with lactose intolerance. Milk contains a high amount of lactose, which needs to be broken down by the digestive enzyme lactase into galactose and glucose before it can be absorbed by the body. For those lacking lactase, drinking milk can cause reactions like diarrhea. Experts suggest mixing milk with other foods, such as adding it to oatmeal or using it to make bread, which can effectively reduce the discomfort of lactose intolerance.
Second, those allergic to milk protein. According to Xinhua Daily Telegraph, a milk protein allergy is an abnormal or excessive immune reaction caused by milk protein. Some people experience allergic-like reactions after drinking milk, such as diarrhea, asthma, rhinitis, or hives.
Third, patients with iron-deficiency anemia. Experts warn that a large amount of calcium can hinder iron absorption. Therefore, it's best not to drink milk when taking iron supplements. You can drink milk in the morning, eat iron-rich foods at noon, and take iron supplements in the evening.
Fourth, patients who have just undergone abdominal surgery. Because the fat and casein in milk are not easily digested, they remain in the body for a long time and produce gas, leading to symptoms of bloating in the patient.
What are the common misconceptions about drinking milk?
One, Inconsistent milk consumption
Many people are inconsistent with their milk drinking, like "fishing for three days and sun-drying for two." However, supplementing calcium through milk requires a continuous process to keep the body in a state of stable calcium absorption.
Two, Insufficient milk consumption
As a highly nutritious food, drinking too little milk can fail to meet nutritional needs. Generally, children should aim for 500ml daily, preferably 700-750ml. Adults should aim for 250ml daily, preferably 400-500ml.
Three, Incorrect methods of drinking milk
Many people experience bloating and diarrhea after drinking milk. This may not only be related to "lactose intolerance" but also to incorrect drinking methods. The following methods can be used to adjust this.
Four, Do not drink milk on an empty stomach. You can drink it with a meal or within one hour after a meal. You can also have it with grains, meat, or eggs.
Five, Drink small amounts frequently. People with a lactase deficiency are not absolutely unable to drink milk; they just cannot consume a large amount at once.