GETTING SOME MILK?

Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? What farmer plants a vineyard without eating any of its fruit? Or who tends a flock without getting some of the milk?–1 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV)

Milk is a nutrient-rich liquid food produced by the mammary glands of mammals (Lamentations 4:3 (ESV) –Even jackals offer the breast; they nurse their young…), and the primary source of nutrition for young mammals before they are able to digest solid food (1 Corinthians 3:2 (NIV) –I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it...). [1] It can also be substituted for water in many recipes, making dishes more substantial and giving them a richer taste. 

Nutrition Facts

Below is a table showing the nutritional value of different types of milk per 1-cup serving (all data from the USDA). All varieties are comparable in carbohydrates and sugar quantity (about 12g each) and protein (about 8g each). [2]

Reduced-fat milk (2% milk) is one of the most popular varieties of cow's milk. It provides less fat than whole milk but has a creamier taste and texture than skim milk. ^[2]

Who can Drink Milk?

Not everyone can drink milk; some have a milk protein allergy which is common in both children and adults, and can range from mild to severe. Lactose intolerance is also quite common and affects around 65% of the world’s population. [3] For these reasons people choose to use nondairy milk alternatives. A few examples include: coconut milk, almond milk, soy milk, rice milk and oat milk.

Proven Health Benefits of Milk ^[4]

1. It is packed with nutrients. Proverbs 27:27 (NIV) –You will have plenty of goat’s milk to feed your family and to nourish your female servants. Milk contains a wide array of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, protein, healthy fats and antioxidants.
2. It is a good source of quality protein. Genesis 18:18 (ESV) –Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate. Milk is a rich source of quality protein that contains all nine essential amino acids.
3. It benefits the bone. Job 21:24 (ISV) –His buckets are filled with milk, his bone marrow is healthy. Milk contains a variety of nutrients that benefit bone health, such as calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus and magnesium. Studies suggest that consuming milk and dairy products may prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures.
4. It helps prevent weight gain. Lamentations 4:7 (NLT) –Our princes once glowed with health –brighter than snow, whiter than milk... Adding milk, especially whole milk, to your diet may prevent weight gain.
5. It is a versatile ingredient. Job 10:10 (ESV) –Did you not pour me out like milk and curdle me like cheese? Milk is a versatile ingredient that can be added to your diet in a number of ways. 

Milk can also be substituted for water in many recipes, making dishes more substantial and giving them a richer taste (Judges 5:25 (ESV) He asked for water and she gave him milk; she brought him curds in a noble’s bowl). Finally, remember that milk is perishable and should be stored in a cool and dry place.

REFERENCES

1. Van Winckel, M; Velde, SV; De Bruyne, R; Van Biervliet, S (2011). "Clinical Practice". European Journal of Pediatrics. 
2. Verywell Fit. Malia Frey. Milk Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
3. Medline Plus. Lactose Intolerance.
4. Julian Kubala. 5 Ways that Drinking Milk Can Improve Your Health.