Whether you prefer a cold glass with your breakfast, a warm mug before bed, or anything in between, enjoying organic milk can boost your energy, soothe your stomach, and provide you with important nutrients. While you may think that milk is milk, this is not the case – there are many benefits to going organic.
Organic milk comes from cows that are not treated with growth hormones, antibiotics or other preventative medications. These cows are required to graze on a pasture for at least three months of the year, and must be given 100 percent organic feed, with no artificial or animal byproducts, the rest of the time. They must also be allowed access to the outdoors and able to move around.
All of these conditions translate to a pure, chemical-free glass of milk. Research has also found that organic milk is more nutritious. A 2013 study performed at Washington State University found that organic milk has a healthier ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are linked to important anti-inflammatory benefits, as well as to heart and brain health. Having too high a ratio of omega-6 fatty acids has been linked to inflammation and numerous chronic ailments.
While a glass of organic milk is great on its own, the following three additions can add even more nutrition to each sip.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are rich in protein, calcium, fiber and numerous antioxidants. They also contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, boosting your milk’s omega-3 ratio even further. Unlike flax seeds, chia seeds do not need to be ground: simply mix a spoonful of the whole seeds right into your milk.
Raw cacao
Raw cacao powder is made up of unprocessed cacao beans; the raw form of chocolate. It contains several B-vitamins, along with vitamin E, and minerals including calcium, copper, iron, potassium and zinc. Raw cacao also contains flavonoid antioxidants and healthy fats, as well as theobromine, an alkaloid linked to providing the body with natural energy.
Raw honey
Raw honey can be soothing to an upset stomach, and helps to support healthy gut bacteria for improved digestion and immune function. It has also been linked by research to easing coughs and other cold symptoms even better than standard cough medicines. Furthermore, eating local, raw honey can help desensitize your body to allergens found in your area.
Note: Raw honey is not suitable for children under 12 months of age.
When choosing your organic milk, keep in mind that whole milk is the healthiest choice, as the fatty acids are concentrated in the fat portion. Each of the above-listed foods can give a great boost to your milk, and combining all three is not only delicious, it can really supercharge the nutritional quotient.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/organic-vs-conventional-milk
http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0082429
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/5-ways-to-eat-chia-seeds
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/why-organic-raw-dark-chocolate-should-be-part-of-your-diet
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/from-the-hive-to-healing-the-power-of-raw-honey
