How milk fuels you up for the challenges ahead

Being able to handle stress well, whether in school or at work, starts with having the right nutrition. Here’s how the new Meiji Multivitamin Milk can help supplement your diet.

When it comes to eating well, most of us start out with the best intentions. We find nutritious recipes, pick up colourful produce at the supermarket, and set aside time to prepare healthy meals for ourselves and our children.

However, when the pressures of work and school kick in, it’s all too easy to let good eating habits fall by the wayside in favour of heavily processed, ready-to-eat food.

Ever craved bubble tea or reached for potato chips when you’re studying for an important exam or rushing to meet a deadline? Eating junk food – usually food that's high in fat and sugar – causes our brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that makes us feel good, providing temporary release from stress. 

Over the long term, consuming too much fatty or sugary foods can increase inflammation in the body, exacerbating stress and anxiety while putting you at risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes.

A healthy diet – one that includes complex carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals – is an important part of stress management as it helps regulate hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

The good news: Eating healthy doesn’t have to be time-consuming or daunting. With some small tweaks and by making informed choices, it’s possible to fit good nutrition into your busy schedule. 

WHY IS MILK GOOD FOR US?

Drinking milk, long touted as being beneficial for our health, is an easy way to get a variety of nutrients into your diet. 

Milk is good for us as it’s a complete protein, according to a report by accredited nutritionist and presenter-host Charlotte Mei de Drouas, who runs nutrition literacy workshops and talks. “In addition to casein and whey, milk contains all nine essential amino acids that cannot be synthesised by the body, and therefore have to be obtained through one’s diet,” said Ms de Drouas.

Milk also supplies one with energy, along with micronutrients in an easily absorbed form, she added. Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals that are vital for our bodies to function well, and while they are needed only in small quantities, any deficiency may lead to health issues. 

PLUGGING NUTRITION GAPS WITH ENRICHED MILK

A study published in Public Health Nutrition in 2017 found that fortified milk reduced the risk of anaemia in young children, although more evidence is needed before global recommendations can be made, clarified Ms de Drouas. 

Another study published in the journal Nutrients in 2017 revealed that students who consumed fortified milk were found to have higher academic performance, motivation and learning compared to those who did not. 

“When consumed alongside a balanced diet of wholegrains, protein, fruit and vegetables, Meiji Multivitamin Milk, which is enriched with 17 multivitamins and minerals, can complement one’s meals and help adults meet their recommended daily allowance for various nutrients,” said Ms de Drouas. 

Those who bemoan their inability to digest dairy have another reason to cheer: Meiji Multivitamin Milk is lactose-free. It is also low in saturated fat and contains no added sugar. 

WHAT MAKES MEIJI MULTIVITAMIN MILK DIFFERENT?

Vitamins found in Meiji Multivitamin Milk can be classified into two categories: Fat- and water-soluble vitamins, said Ms de Drouas. 

Meiji Multivitamin Milk contains Vitamin B-Complex, which includes B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12. “These help convert protein, carbohydrates and fat into energy for the body,” she explained, adding that these water-soluble vitamins are essential for growth and development, as well as the optimal functioning of cells.

Vitamin B-Complex is also important for energy production and nervous system function, both of which can be affected by stress. Vitamin B6, in particular, is known to help regulate mood and reduce anxiety.

Vitamins A, D, E and K are some of the fat-soluble vitamins found in Meiji Multivitamin Milk. Vitamin A is essential in maintaining good eye health and a robust immune system. Vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium required to build and maintain strong and healthy bones, while Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Vitamin K is required for blood clotting to help wounds heal. 

Meiji Multivitamin Milk also contains a range of minerals such as calcium, selenium, zinc, iron, sodium and phosphorous, which the body requires to function well, from building healthy bones to regulating hormone production.  

A WORD ON MIXING MILK AND VITAMINS

Can there be too much of a good thing? According to Ms de Drouas, there is no evidence to show that mixing vitamins with milk is harmful, or that it compromises how nutrients are absorbed. But if you’re already taking vitamin or mineral supplements, seek the opinion of a health professional. 

When life gets hectic, meeting your nutritional requirements is important to help you learn, work and function well. By making smart food choices the next time you stock up on groceries, you can feel good about what you and your family eat even in the busiest of times. 

Find out more about how Meiji Multivitamin Milk can supplement your nutritional needs.