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The National Academy of Sciences states that both children and adults should drink about three glasses of milk each day. But why milk? We all know that milk is filled with calcium, which is good for our bones and teeth-but why not just take a calcium supplement? Here are five other reasons why you should drink up.

1. Protein: Milk contains a significant amount of protein which is essential for healthy brain development, body tissue growth, and heart health.

2. Vitamin A: This vitamin is known as the anti-infective vitamin since it is required in order for the immune system to function properly. Many milk products are actually fortified with Vitamin A to provide you with an extra dose of this important vitamin.

3. Vitamin B12: The main function of this vitamin is to produce red blood cells which aids in a healthy nervous system. As it is difficult to get Vitamin B12 from food sources, drinking milk is an excellent way to make sure your body has enough of it.

4. Vitamin D: In order for the body to absorb calcium, it needs Vitamin D. By getting about 15 minutes of sun each day you can get a healthy dose but, unfortunately, in the winter it is usually almost impossible to get adequate amounts. Drinking milk is an excellent way to get your dose of this important vitamin.

5. Potassium: Potassium helps to maintain proper electrolyte and acid base balance in the body, lowers the risk of high blood pressure, and ensures that both nerves and muscles function properly. One glass of milk contains about 350-400 mg of potassium.

Milk is especially important for young teens because by the time they finish their growth spurt, the majority of their adult bone mass is already established. What this means, is that if they have not gotten enough calcium by this time, it is too late as the body will not absorb near as calcium after this point. If you are lactose intolerant, or do not like the taste of soy milk, eating a well balanced diet and taking a multivitamin supplement, along with a calcium supplement, should ensure that you are meeting all of your nutritional needs.