Got Organic Milk?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture uses four criteria to define organic milk: cows should not be treated with Bovine Growth Hormone (BGH) to increase their production, cows should not be treated with antibiotics, the feeds grown should be free from pesticides and the cows should have access to pasture grazing.

Next to fruits and vegetables, organic milk has been found to be valuable source of vitamins and antioxidants. Studies reveal that organic milk contains powerful antioxidants like Beta-carotene and Alpha tocopherol. These antioxidants are the most active of Vitamin E compounds. While Beta-carotene helps to reduce the risk of developing cancer, resistance to infections, strong eyesight, bone growth, and good skin. Alpha tocopherol counters the harmful effects of free radicals, which causes aging.

Vitamin A category antioxidants like Lutein and Zeaxanthine help in preventing cataracts, atherosclerosis (blocking of block vessels) and macular degeneration (deteriorating eyesight due to age factors). By consuming a pint of organic milk a day, women gain 17.5 percent and men gain 14 percent of the required intake of vitamin E. A pint of milk also contains the same quantity of Beta-carotene found in a portion of Brussels sprouts.

Recent research conducted by Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences and the University of Newcastle that shown than organic milk contains 50 percent more of Alpha tocopherol, 75 percent more of beta carotene and three times higher antioxidants like Lutein and Zeaxanthine compared to non organic cow milk. Organic milk contains higher levels of omega3 essential fatty acids compared to non organic milk, as organic cows are pasture grazed and fed with a much higher quantity of red clover compared to conventional cows. Red clover is rich in omega3 essential fatty acids.

Another research conducted by University of Liverpool supports that organic milk contains 68 percent higher omega3 essential fatty acids higher than nonorganic milk. Omega3 deficiency is a major cause for heart problems, inflammation which is visible in skin diseases like eczema, cancer and arthritis.

If you consider the many health benefits of organic milk, the extra price will pay large dividends beginning now.ill reward your taste buds while giving your health a beneficial boost.