Nutritive and Dietetic Value (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Nutritive and Dietetic Value of Milk
Average Composition of Milk
| Type | Protein | Fats | Carbohydrates | Minerals | Vitamins | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole | 3.4% | 3.6% | 4.6% | Calcium, phosphorus, potassium | A, B group, D | 87.6% |
| Low-fat | 3.4% | 1% | 4.5% | Calcium, phosphorus, potassium | B group | 89% |
| Skimmed | 3.5% | 0.3% | 4.6% | Calcium, phosphorus, potassium | B group | 91% |
infoNote
- Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth.
- Phosphorus: Supports bone and teeth formation and energy production.
- Potassium: Maintains healthy nerve and muscle function.
Nutritive Value of Milk (What's in it?)
infoNote
Nutritive Value: Focuses on the nutrients milk provides (e.g., protein, vitamins).
- Remember: The nutritive value will vary depending on milk type.
- High-Quality Protein: Milk provides good quality protein that helps with growth and repair of the body.
- Fat Content:
- Whole milk has more fat.
- Low-fat and skimmed milk have less fat, which is better for adults looking to reduce fat intake.
- Carbohydrates (Lactose): Milk contains lactose, a natural sugar that provides energy.
- Vitamins:
- Vitamin A for vision and immunity.
- B Vitamins for energy and brain health.
- Vitamin D for strong bones.
- Minerals:
- Calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Phosphorus and potassium for bone health and body functions.
- High Water Content: Milk is mostly water, which helps keep you hydrated.
Dietetic Value of Milk (Why it's Good for You)
infoNote
Dietetic Value: Focuses on how milk fits into specific diets (e.g., low-fat, age).
- Easy to Digest: Milk's protein is easy to digest, making it a great choice for:
- Children (helps them grow),
- Pregnant women (supports baby's growth),
- Older adults (keeps them strong),
- People recovering from illness.
- Low-Fat Options for Diets:
- Low-fat and skimmed milk have less fat, so they're good for low-calorie or low-cholesterol diets.
- These types are not recommended for young children who need the extra vitamins and fats in whole milk.
- Lactose for Energy: Lactose provides quick energy. For those who are lactose intolerant, there's lactose-free milk.
- Strong Bones: Milk's high calcium content helps build strong bones and teeth, which is especially important for growing children, teens, and pregnant women.
- Affordable Nutrition: Milk is nutritious and budget-friendly, making it ideal for people on a budget.
- Although milk is a complete food, it lacks fibre, vitamin C, and iron. For a balanced meal, it's best combined with other foods rich in these nutrients.
- For a balanced breakfast, try milk with Weetabix, a boiled egg, brown bread, and orange juice.
Benefits of Milk
- Growth and Repair – Protein and calcium help you grow strong.
- Bone Health – Calcium and vitamin D for strong bones and teeth.
- Energy Boost – Lactose (milk sugar) gives you energy quickly.
- Hydration – Milk's water content helps keep you hydrated.