Читать книгу Safe Food: What to eat and drink in pregnancy - Rosie Dodds - Страница 26

The second of the small sections on our imaginary plate is for milk-based foods, or dairy products. Milk – and foods made from it, such as cheese, yoghurt and fromage frais – is an excellent and convenient source of calcium, zinc, some B group vitamins and protein.

Milk and milk products contain varying amounts of fat, depending on the type of milk and the way in which it has been processed. ‘Skimmed’ milk has had all the fat removed and ‘semi-skimmed’ milk has had half the fat removed. Both have the same amount of protein as whole milk – and slightly more calcium.

Liquid milk also contains plenty of water, so a glass of chilled, semi-skimmed milk is a refreshing and nutritious drink. If you do not like the taste of milk, try flavouring it with mashed banana or pulped mango. Use unsweetened cocoa powder in hot milk for a comforting evening drink.

The calcium in milk and other foods is very important. Calcium is a mineral needed by our bodies to ensure strong bones and teeth. A good supply of calcium is especially important during pregnancy (when your baby’s bones and teeth are developing) and while breastfeeding.