World Milk Day – the health benefits of dairy

June 1^st marks World Milk Day, an international awareness day that celebrates the importance of milk and dairy products.

Milk is a natural source of many important vitamins and nutrients, but over half (58%) of Brits aren’t aware of one of milk’s most valuable properties as a natural source of Vitamin B12. B12 is important for our general well-being as it reduces fatigue and tiredness, supports the immune system to work normally and helps the body to release energy from food.

And while price is a huge concern for many shoppers, milk can be one of the most important items on a weekly shopping list, as it’s a cost-effective way of obtaining important nutrients that can benefit our health.

Animal-based foods such as meat and dairy products are some of the prime sources of B12. If you include meat, fish or dairy food in your diet, you should be able to get enough B12. Vegans may struggle as B12 is not found naturally in plant food. Fortified foods and supplements are the only reliable vegan sources.

Worryingly, research from the AHDB found that one in three (35%) adults will need to change their diet to save money in 2023. The good news is that products like milk – which, in addition to vitamin B12, contributes many essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin A, riboflavin, iodine, and potassium – is one of the most affordable sources of protein and can help to maintain a healthy balanced diet without the price tag. If you have a vegan diet, along with consuming foods that have been fortified, it is advisable to take a vitamin B12 supplement.