Whole, semi-skimmed or skimmed milk: know the difference

Drinking milk every day is essential for keeping bones healthy, as this is the best source of calcium we have. An adult who does not consume any other food containing this mineral can keep its levels regulated by drinking only three glasses of milk a day, until the age of 50. After age 50, that consumption should be increased to an average of five to six glasses every day.

Milk is a complete and necessary food, but what is the difference between whole milk and skim milk?

whole milk

Whole milk contains a higher fat content, keeping, as its name suggests, all the fat present in the milk before it is industrialized. The percentage of fat present in this type is at least 3% of its composition. Whole milk is best suited for children over two years of age as the energy demand at this stage is quite high.

Adolescents and pre-teens who are going through puberty should continue to consume milk in significant amounts, because their bodies also need energy so that their development is not impaired.

It is important to emphasize, however, that children and adolescents who are overweight should avoid whole milk. That’s because the large amount of fat contained in it can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, in addition to making it difficult to lose weight.

Skimmed milk

Anyone who suffers from diseases of the cardiovascular system or is on a diet to lose weight should give preference to skimmed milk. It does not contain the vitamins A and D present in whole milk but, on the other hand, it has very low fat levels.

Skim milk maintains the same amounts of protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients as whole milk, so you can replace it without harming your health. What makes it less “energetic” is, in fact, the fat. This type of milk, like whole milk, can also be used in cooking.

Semi-skimmed milk

Semi-skimmed milk, like skimmed milk, is processed in the sense that part of the fat contained in whole milk is removed. It is an intermediate between the other two types, with fat levels between 06% and 2.9%. Like the others, this one also keeps the same minerals.

So that people who suffer from lactose intolerance or other allergies related to cow’s milk do not need to cut back on the consumption of this food, there is currently a wide variety of milks on the market. What matters is not neglecting the consumption of this food.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.