In continuing with our theme of reader submitted questions
for March, this week we are going to take a closer look at some of the things
we drink. Several people have written in with questions about milk, and energy
drinks. Given the popularity of these beverages, let's take a few moments to
get the truth out on them.
Nancy writes, “You hear a lot of people talk about cow's
milk and that it's full of antibiotics, hormones and whatever else. Aren't we
the only species who drinks milk from another animal? After hearing so much
about it lately I been thinking about cutting back.” These are all really good
questions Nancy and I'm sure there are other people out there who want to know
more about milk too. When it comes to Canadian milk, farmers and manufacturers
follow strict governmental standards to keep cows healthy and milk healthy and
safe for us to drink. Growth hormones to stimulate milk production are not
approved for sale, nor are they permitted for use here in our country (unlike
some others, i.e. The US). When it comes to antibiotics, these are
occasionally used but again it is very regulated. Like people, cows can get
sick too, so sometimes they'll be given medication to get healthy again. If
this is the case, the cow is identified and milked separately and the milk is
discarded of for a predetermined length of time to ensure all medication is out
of her system. Therefore, you can rest assure there are no growth hormones or
antibiotics in your milk. We know that milk is one of the richest sources of
calcium, and vitamin D and has many essential nutrients. It's not just good for
baby cows, but it's good for humans too. Calcium and vitamin D help to maintain
strong bones and keep us healthy. Adequate intakes of milk are also thought to
protect us from high blood pressure and colon cancer (two conditions with a
high prevalence in Newfoundland). Choose lower fat milk (2% or less) and have 2 cups (or 500ml) a day of milk or a
similar fortified beverage for good health.
Karen asks, “I's like to know about energy drinks. I know
it's not the most healthful drink, but it can't be bad can it? They say if you
don't like coffee, these are good to give you some energy. I myself am not a
coffee drinker and always looking for an extra boost. Are they ok for me and my
family to drink?” Thanks Karen, this is another really good question. When it
comes to energy drinks, they may give you a quick burst of energy, but it
really doesn't last. Energy drinks can contain large amounts of caffeine, and
occasionally it's more than what's recommended for some ages to be consuming,
especially kids. We know that too much caffeine can cause unwanted side effects
like difficulty sleeping, rapid heartbeat, and even elevated blood pressure. It
can also be addictive. In addition to caffeine, energy drinks can be loaded
with sugar. Some as much as 14 teaspoons actually (that's more than a regular
can of pop!) The bottom line is that they aren't recommended for children,
women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and they shouldn't be consumed with
alcohol or in amounts more than 500ml/day. Healthy, non-caffeinated beverages
such as plain water, 100 % juice and milk are really the best alternatives.
Really when it comes down to it, the best way to get energized is to eat well,
be active, get enough sleep and stay hydrated.
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