Cultured Milk - What It Is, and Why We Should Drink It
When we think of cultured milk, only one picture comes to mind: a dairy product that has been enhanced with beneficial nutrients for healthy consumption.
Every child and every adult loves cultured milk for its unique taste and colourful, fruity flavours, but little know about how it is made and why nutritionally, it contains important micronutrients that can positively aid our bodily functions. This little bottle is a symbol of delight for many, but understanding its benefits to our health and body can do a great deal in making it a part of our lifestyle.
How does cultured milk come about?
Producing cultured milk starts off with the process of fermentation, as a way of preserving the shelf life of milk products and enhancing its taste and digestibility. Fresh dairy milk is fermented with strains of live probiotic cultures, such as lactobacillus paracasei, which is found in Meiji Paigen Cultured Milk.
Different strains of these live probiotic cultures result in different tastes, which is why cultured milk can taste unique depending on its strain of live probiotic cultures. With the fermentation process enhancing the milk’s digestibility, cultured milk is also a popular alternative milk option for lactose intolerant milk drinkers.
How do live probiotic cultures enhance cultured milk?
Beyond taste, shelf life and digestibility, live probiotic cultures are essentially living microorganisms that aid in restoring bacterial balance to our bodies. Naturally, our intestines contain digestive bacteria that help digest the food we consume. Live probiotic cultures help enhance these good, natural digestive bacteria by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and keeping the gastrointestinal tract healthy and balanced.
Gastrointestinal balance plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting overall immunological function, whether it is young children or grown adults. Combined with a healthy lifestyle, a balanced digestive tract can be effective in reducing unwanted diarrhoea, digestive problems, or stomach pain, and even promote a healthier bowel by balancing pH levels in the intestines.
Why cultured milk is good to drink up
Besides live probiotic cultures, cultured milk like Meiji Paigen also contain Vitamin A, which is known for its antioxidant properties that can protect cell tissues in your body. In addition, Meiji Paigen contains 0% trans-fat, which makes it an ideal drink for users who need to keep their trans-fat consumption low to help reduce the risk of heart disease.
As with any food product, even healthy cultured milk should be consumed in moderation; experts recommend a daily intake of 1-2 bottles per day for adults, and 1 per day for young children. As for what flavours, it is yours to choose.
Meiji Paigen’s Natural flavour and Healthier Choice-labelled Lower Sugar flavour are perfect for those who love the classic taste of cultured milk. For the younger ones who love a more fruity punch, try the Strawberry, Orange, Blueberry or Mixed Fruit flavours.