If everyone loves chocolate milk, then why wouldn't kids? Chocolate milk is ideal if you plan to increase your kid's calcium and vitamin D. However, many people think giving chocolate milk to kids may not be good for their health. But it is not like that. Even chocolate milk has many benefits that help your kid stay stronger and more active. Without any further delay, let us get into the blog.
What is Chocolate Milk?
Chocolate milk is made with flavored cocoa and sugar. It is a favorite drink for kids and adults. Drinking chocolate milk is safe for most people, but it has to be consumed in moderation, as it contains high sugar.
Can Kids Drink Chocolate Milk?
It is a healthy treat with a lot of nutrient content. It is also the best choice for kids who don't drink milk. But parents think that chocolate milk is not at all good for kids' health. So here are some scientific reasons about chocolate milk that tell you the goodness and how it works for your children's development and health.
Chocolate Milk Nutrition Facts
Here are some nutritional value of chocolate milk that you have to know!!
Each 6-ounce serves 2% of chocolate milk contains:
Also, chocolate is an excellent source of many minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and Vitamin D.
Potential Health Benefits of Chocolate Milk
milk is rich in protein, vitamin D, and calcium. It also contains minerals and electrolytes, which have several nutritional benefits for kids. As we all know, milk is naturally rich in calcium, which helps with bone health and teeth.
Muscle Mass
Chocolate milk is generally rich in protein, which helps increase muscle mass and strength. Many studies have shown that drinking chocolate milk continuously increases endurance, especially during the daytime. It keeps the kids active all day long. Some studies also suggest chocolate milk is more effective than other sports drinks in increasing endurance and strength.
Weight Management
Did you know? Chocolate milk helps in weight management. This protein and calcium-packed drink helps kids feel full after drinking. This feeling will stop them from eating more food. Remember, if you are consuming chocolate milk for weight management, it should be consumed in moderation.
Potential Risks of Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk contains added sugar and flavor compared to regular milk, which can contribute to obesity and other health-related issues. If you are planning to reduce sugar and calories then this drink will help you. Cocoa contains oxalic acid, which can absorb the calcium from your body. Also, those who have allergies to milk and milk-related problems or lactose intolerance can avoid chocolate milk, as it causes discomfort in digestion .
Why Chocolate Milk is Good For Kids?
As mentioned above, chocolate milk offers various nutritional benefits that will mesmerize you. A study published in Nutrition and Metabolism in 2021 found that drinking one glass of chocolate milk every day helps reduce cardiac disease, stroke, tension, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and even Alzheimer's disease .
Did you know? Dairy milk is considered a dietary staple for kids for a good reason. Milk contains 18 to 22 essential nutrients that kids need, including bioactive peptides, fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid, and palmitic acid. All these nutrients are found in dairy milk, which also conveys that chocolate milk, by default, also has all these nutrients, which signals that chocolate milk is totally good for kids' health and strength.
How Much Chocolate Milk Should You Give to Your Kid?
Every parent wishes to give the best to their children. Isn't it? Parents are responsible for limiting the quantity of sugar items they serve to their children. A study recommends taking 3 cups of fat-free and low-fat milk and milk products per day for the age group of nine years. And 2 ½ cups per day for the kids between four to eight years. Also, if your kids consume chocolate milk daily, they must reduce their intake of other sugary foods, such as cheese, plain yogurt, etc.
Top Reasons Why Chocolate Milk is Considered as Bad for Kids?
Chocolate milk can still be a part of Children's diets. It is very important to know that some sugar from chocolates comes naturally(called lactose), which we can't remove or avoid. Both the Dietary Guidelines and the American Academy of Pediatrics have acknowledged that adding a small amount of sugar can increase the palatability of nutrient-rich foods. In addition, flavored milk is estimated to contribute only 4% of the added sugar of children ages 2 to 18 while providing essential nutrients in return.
Inflammation
Many studies have found that dairy products do not cause inflammation, so you don't have to worry about consuming them.
Many parents are worried that added sugar and calories in chocolate milk could contribute to obesity. Recent research says that there is no link between flavored milk and an increase in body mass index(BMI). It is also important to know that BMI is considered a key indicator of physical health. Doctors will also use BMI to check whether it is dated, biased, or doesn't take into factors like gender, age, etc.
Conclusion
It is safe for kids to drink chocolate milk, as it has many benefits for their bodies. So no more worries!! Prepare chocolate milk and give it to your kids, letting them enjoy every sip. Also, remember to consume it in moderation.
Elmira is a full-time health writer at CompleteHealthNews.com where she educates and advises on how to lead a healthy life from eating to getting into fitness. She completed her master's degree at Columbia University. Her blogs are evidence-based, not opinionated. Her articles are based on a diabetes diet, weight loss, fitness, skincare, and mental health. She believes in healthy eating and also encourages her readers to lead healthier, more balanced lives. She devotes time to implement a healthy lifestyle every day.