Our diets change as we age. For instance, our body gets less calcium, so we must increase our calcium intake. Milk provides calcium, but not all types are suitable for elderly consumption. This page describes antique milk styles that are no longer consumed.
Dairy
Healthline defines raw milk as unpasteurized or pureed milk. Uncooked milk may be healthier than pasteurized milk, but it can be dangerous, especially for older people. Raw milk can contain deadly bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. According to the CDC, older folks are more likely to get sick from drinking raw milk than younger people.
Flavored milk
Flavored milk is often marketed to toddlers, but older people may enjoy the candy flavor. However, sugar in flavored milk can cause weight, diabetes, and heart disease. As we age, our our bodies end up much less green at processing sugar, making it crucial to limit our intake of brought sugars. For a natural sweetness, try adding a little honey or cinnamon to plain milk.
Full-Fat Milk
Skimmed and low-fat milk are now full-fat. It tastes fuller and creamier than skim milk but has more energy and saturated fat. Saturated fats raise cholesterol and risk of coronary heart disease, which many older people already have. Low-fat or skim milk still contains calcium and vitamin D, but with less fat and calories.
Goat Milk
Goat milk has become a popular alternative to cow’s milk. Goat milk is rich in calcium and vitamin D, but it also has more fat than cow’s milk, which may be an issue for older adults trying to lose weight. Goat milk is also harder to find than cow’s milk, making it more expensive. Talk to your doctor before trying goat milk.
Soymilk
Soy milk is popular among lactose-intolerant and dairy-allergic people. Soy milk is high in protein, but it may also contain phytoestrogens that act like estrogen in the body. Older people with breast cancer or other estrogen-sensitive conditions may be affected by this. Soy milk may also be highly prepared and contain unhealthy sugars. Choose a natural, sugar-free soy milk brand if you sip it.
Almondmilk
Almond milk is another popular alternative to cow’s milk, especially among plant-based dieters. It’s low in calories, fats, protein, and minerals like calcium and D. Almond milk makers often add unhealthy sugars. If you sip almond milk, choose a brand with calcium, vitamin D, and no added sugars.
Ricemilk
Rice milk is another popular alternative to cow’s milk, especially for lactose intolerant and dairy allergic people. It’s low in fats, energy, protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Many rice milk makers also add sugars, which are unhealthy. If you sip rice milk, choose a brand with calcium, vitamin D, and no added sugars.
Milk
Condensed milk is used in pastry and as a sweetener. Condensed milk has too much sugar and energy for regular consumption, especially for older people. Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are linked to sugar consumption. Instead of condensed milk, bake with honey or maple syrup.
Milk evaporates
Maximum water is taken from canned evaporated milk. It’s high in calories and saturated fats, but it’s often used in dishes instead of cream. Like full-fat milk, saturated fats increase the risk of coronary heart disease, which affects many older people. Use low-fat or non-fat milk in recipes instead of condensed milk.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk, a tangy, bitter milk product, is used in pastry and meat marinades. It has less fat than whole milk but more calories and fatty fat. Some buttermilk makers add unhealthy ingredients like sugars. If you sip buttermilk, choose a brand without added sugars or other ingredients.
In conclusion, milk is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, but not all types are suitable for older adults. Raw, flavored, full-fat, goat, soy, almond, rice, condensed, evaporated, and buttermilk should be consumed sparingly or avoided. Instead, add low-fat or non-fat milk to your diet for minerals without the calories and fat. Always discuss your health needs with your healthcare provider.
by: muthinimbevi