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Milk May Reduce Risk of High Blood Pressure |
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Written by Superhuman
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Thursday, 17 January 2008 |
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The newest United States Department of Agriculture dietary recommendations (2005) urged adults to
consume 3 cups of fat-free or low-fat milk or equivalent milk products a day. Milk is high in calcium and eight essential vitamins and minerals. High milk consumption is linked to a reduced risk of obesity and high blood pressure, but a slightly elevated risk of prostate cancer. Researchers from Finland, in a review of literature, concluded that high consumption of milk and other dairy products reduces the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) by reducing the production of angiotensin-converting enzyme (blood pressure regulator), inhibiting blood clotting and promoting brain endorphin activity (natural pain reliever). The benefits of consuming dairy foods exceed the small increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Nonfat milk is an excellent post-workout drink because it supplies high-quality protein and carbohydrates that promote recovery and muscle growth. (Journal Nutrition, 137: 825-829, 2007)
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