Milk is nature’s most complete food, and dairy products are considered to be the most nutritious foods of all. The traditional view of the role of milk has been greatly expanded in recent years beyond the horizon of nutritional subsistence of infants: it is now recognized to be more than a source of nutrients for the healthy growth of children and nourishment of adult humans. Alongside its major proteins (casein and whey), milk contains biologically active compounds, which have important physiological and biochemical functions and significant impacts upon human metabolism, nutrition and health. Many of these compounds have been proven to have beneficial effects on human nutrition and health. This comprehensive reference is the first to address such a wide range of topics related to milk production and human health, including: mammary secretion, production, sanitation, quality standards and chemistry, as well as nutrition, milk allergies, lactose intolerance, and the bioactive and therapeutic compounds found in milk. In addition to cow’s milk, the book also covers the milk of non-bovine dairy species which is of economic importance around the world. The Editors have assembled a team of internationally renowned experts to contribute to this exhaustive volume which will be essential reading for dairy scientists, nutritionists, food scientists, allergy specialists and health professionals.

Milk, the first and for a time only source of nutrition for mammals, influences early growth and development and may provide a foundation for health throughout the entire lifespan. It is therefore mandatory that milk substitutes have a composition which fulfills the same goals and confers as close as possible the overall health benefits of human milk. Moreover, in many populations, milk continues to play a major role in a healthy and balanced diet throughout life: During childhood, pregnancy and adulthood, intake of cow’s milk has important beneficial effects on linear growth, bone development and the risk of developing caries, and it is important in the prevention and treatment of undernutrition in low-income countries.This publication contains the presentations and discussions of the Nestlé Nutrition Institute Workshop held in Marrakech in March 2010. It focuses on three main topics: milk during pregnancy and infancy, milk during childhood in low- and high-income countries, and general aspects of milk in adult nutrition. Together, these contributions cover most aspects of milk during the life cycle in a global perspective, making the publication a comprehensive textbook.

Milk and Dairy Foods: Their Functionality in Human Health and Disease addresses issues at key life stages, presenting updates on the impact of dairy on cardiometabolic health, hemodynamics, cardiovascular health, glycemic control, body weight, bone development, muscle mass and cancer. The book also explores the impact of dairy fats on health, dairy fat composition, trans-fatty acids in dairy products, the impact of organic milk on health, milk and dairy intolerances, and dairy as a source of dietary iodine. Written for food and nutrition researchers, academic teachers, and health professionals, including clinicians and dietitians, this book is sure to be a welcomed resource for all who wish to understand more about the role of dairy in health. Addresses the functional effects of dairy related to reducing the risk of key chronic diseases Contains information related to various life stages, including chapters on dairy foods and bone development in the young and dairy foods and maintenance of muscle mass in the elderly

The role of milk during the life cycle -- a global view Milk, the first and for a time only source of nutrition for mammals, influences early growth and development and may provide a foundation for health throughout the entire lifespan. It is therefore mandatory that milk substitutes have a composition which fulfills the same goals and confers as close as possible the overall health benefits of human milk. Moreover, in many populations, milk continues to play a major role in a healthy and balanced diet throughout life: During childhood, pregnancy and adulthood, intake of cow's milk has important beneficial effects on linear growth, bone development and the risk of developing caries, and it is important in the prevention and treatment of undernutrition in low-income countries. This publication contains the presentations and discussions of the Nestl Nutrition Institute Workshop held in Marrakech in March 2010. It focuses on three main topics: milk during pregnancy and infancy, milk during childhood in low- and high-income countries, and general aspects of milk in adult nutrition. Together, these contributions cover most aspects of milk during the life cycle in a global perspective, making the publication a comprehensive textbook.

Milk and dairy products are a vital source of nutrition for many people. They also present livelihood opportunities for farm families, processors and other stakeholders in dairy value chains. Consumers, industry and governments need up-to-date information on how milk and dairy products can contribute to human nutrition and how dairy-industry development can best contribute to increasing food security and alleviating poverty. This publication is unique in drawing together information on nutrition, and dairy-industry development, providing a rich source of useful material on the role of dairy products in human nutrition and the way that investment in dairy-industry development has changed.

This lively book examines recent trends in animal product consumption and diet; reviews industry efforts, policies, and programs aimed at improving the nutritional attributes of animal products; and offers suggestions for further research. In addition, the volume reviews dietary and health recommendations from major health organizations and notes specific target levels for nutrients.