Milk, chocolate
Category: Dairy & Egg Products Characteristics: Lowfat, With Added Vitamin A And Vitamin D
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
160
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 102 (63.9%) |
| Protein | 35 (21.7%) |
| Fat | 25 (15.7%) |
| Total | 160 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [250g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 211 (84.5%) |
| Carbohydrate | 26 (10.2%) |
| Protein | 8.7 (3.5%) |
| Fat | 2.8 (1.1%) |
| Ash | 2.0 (0.8%) |
| Total | 250 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [250g]
Benefits
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Provides calcium for bone health. Milk is a good source of calcium which is important for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth
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Contains vitamins A and D. Fortified with added vitamins A and D which are important for vision, cell growth and immune function
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Low in fat. The lowfat variety contains less fat than regular milk which can help with weight management as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle
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Source of protein. Milk provides high-quality protein that is important for growth, development, and maintenance of muscle mass
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May help manage blood pressure. Some research suggests that calcium and dairy foods like milk may help to maintain healthy blood pressure levels
Risks
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High in sugar. Chocolate milk contains around 15g of added sugar per serving which provides empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and obesity if consumed in large amounts
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May promote acne in some individuals. The high glycemic load of the sugar in chocolate milk can increase insulin levels and influence acne-promoting hormones in skin such as insulin-like growth factor 1
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Lack of protein may lead to hunger. The protein content of lowfat chocolate milk is relatively low which may not provide satiety to the same extent as regular or high protein versions
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Excess vitamin A from fortification. The added vitamin A in this product exceeds 10% of the daily value which is the upper safe intake level and could potentially cause side effects with long-term high intake
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Environmental impact of dairy farming. The production and distribution of cow's milk requires significant land and water resources and generates greenhouse gas emissions
Additional Information
Milk, chocolate, low-fat, with added vitamin A and vitamin D, is a food product that offers a range of nutritional benefits and risks. Let's delve into each aspect to understand its impact on our health.
Starting with the primary attribute, milk is a rich source of essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins. It plays a vital role in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, making it particularly beneficial for growing children and adolescents. Calcium also supports proper muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. The protein in milk is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues.
The addition of chocolate to milk enhances its flavor, making it more enjoyable for individuals, especially children. However, it is important to note that chocolate also brings additional calories and sugar to the product. While moderate consumption of chocolate milk can be a part of a balanced diet, excessive intake can contribute to weight gain and an increased risk of dental cavities. Therefore, it is crucial to consume chocolate milk in moderation and as part of an overall healthy eating pattern.
The low-fat attribute in this food product is beneficial for individuals aiming to reduce their saturated fat intake. Low-fat milk contains less fat compared to whole milk, which helps lower the overall calorie content. This can be advantageous for individuals trying to manage their weight or those with specific medical conditions, such as heart disease or high cholesterol levels. However, it is important to note that some fat is necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A and D, which are added to this product.
The addition of vitamin A and vitamin D to milk provides additional nutritional benefits. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting the immune system, and promoting normal growth and development. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, promoting bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. These added vitamins are particularly beneficial for individuals who may have limited sun exposure or who have dietary restrictions that may result in inadequate intake of these vitamins.
Despite the nutritional benefits, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with consuming milk, chocolate, low-fat, with added vitamin A and vitamin D. Some individuals may be lactose intolerant, meaning they have difficulty digesting lactose, the sugar naturally found in milk. In such cases, consuming this product could lead to digestive discomfort. Additionally, individuals with allergies to dairy or chocolate should avoid this product to prevent allergic reactions.
In conclusion, milk, chocolate, low-fat, with added vitamin A and vitamin D provides several nutritional benefits, including calcium, protein, and essential vitamins. However, it is important to consume this product in moderation due to its calorie and sugar content. Additionally, individuals with lactose intolerance or allergies to dairy or chocolate should avoid consuming this product. As with any food, it is crucial to consider individual dietary needs and overall dietary patterns to ensure a balanced and healthy approach to nutrition.