Chocolate milk is a staple of many diets. Children, especially seem to crave this sweet dairy product. While this food may taste delicious, its nutritional composition is slightly less than ideal. Be sure to understand the facts behind chocolate milk before including it in your next meal, or giving it to your child.
Protein Content
Almost all products that come from animals-such as milk, contain at least small amounts of dietary protein. It should be of no surprise, then, that chocolate milk is a great source of this macronutrient. Adequate protein intake helps the body maintain muscle stores, which are essential for walking, climbing stairs, and rising from a seated position. Maintaining muscle mass is especially older as we age, as it can aid in balance and prevent possible falls, fractures, and breaks.
Fat Content
For years, eating high amounts of dietary fat has been linked to weight gain, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. While most dairy products are generally considered to be healthy, there is a significant amount of dietary fat found in chocolate milk. This is especially true in whole chocolate milk, which may contain up to 8% fat. Individuals who are on a diet or have been encouraged to limit their fat intake should choose chocolate milk that is low in or free from fat. Consult with your grocer if you have a difficult time locating fat free chocolate milk. He or she may be willing to order this product for you.
Calcium Content
Chocolate milk-and all types of milk, for that matter-have long been touted for their high calcium content. Calcium is used by the body to maintain healthy teeth, bones, and fingernails. It also has been linked to the absorption of various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins D and C. Getting adequate amounts of calcium in your diet is essential, therefore, for good health. Read the label on your container of chocolate milk to determine exactly how many servings you will need to consume for best results.
Carbohydrate Content
Traditionally, an eight-ounce glass of milk contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrate. For many people, this is okay-in fact, we need adequate amounts of dietary carbohydrate to provide us with the energy we need to get through the day. In fact, even individuals who have been counseled to limit their carbohydrate intake are generally encouraged to include milk in their diet. However, the sweet flavor associated with chocolate milk indicates that a significant amount of sugar has been added-which, when broken down by the body, becomes carbohydrate. In fact, an eight-ounce glass of chocolate milk may contain as many as 20 grams of carbohydrate, nearly twice that of plain white milk! This high amount of sugar and carbohydrate leads to excessive energy, which is often followed by a blood sugar crash. While diabetics may be most at risk for this, non-diabetics may also experience the symptoms. Always consult with a medical professional if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or excessively sweaty. These symptoms may all be linked to low blood sugar levels.