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When it comes to milk and dairy products, you most likely assume that most of the calories come from fats and protein. What you may not realize, however, is that milk and dairy products often contain high levels of carbohydrates as well. Consult the calorie counter for your favorite milk and dairy products to determine the calories and nutrition facts.

Carbohydrate Content

When you pour a glass of milk you may not be aware of how many carbs it contains. Surprisingly, an 8-ounce serving of whole milk contains 11.4 grams of carbohydrates and a glass of 2% milk contains 11.7 grams. Light cream and heavy cream are lower in carbs at 7.1 and 6.6 grams respectively, while evaporated milk products are very high in carbs, containing over 25 grams per 8-ounce serving. The carbohydrate content of milk and dairy products is directly related to the amount of lactose (a type of sugar found in milk).

Saturated Fat Content

One thing to be wary of with milk and dairy products is that they may have high levels of saturated fats. Though there has been a great deal of controversy regarding the dangers of a diet high in saturated fats, recent studies suggest that saturated fat has less of an impact on the risk for heart disease than previously thought. Saturated fats from milk and natural dairy products are unlikely to have a significant impact on heart health.

Milk and dairy products are loaded with vitamins and minerals in addition to their protein, fat, and carbohydrate content. Consult the calorie calculator for your favorite milk and dairy products to determine the calories and nutritional value.

Reduced Risk for Osteoporosis

Milk and dairy products are well known for being a good source of calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral that is required to grow and maintain healthy bones and teeth. Including calcium in your diet is important for preventing osteoporosis – it may also help to reduce your risk for certain types of cancer, including colon cancer. Milk and dairy products may also contain appreciable amounts of vitamin B, a vitamin which helps the body to absorb and utilize calcium.

Improved Overall Health

Milk and dairy products contain a wide variety of nutrients that can have a significant impact on your overall health. For example, it contains both vitamin A and B, which help to improve eyesight and prevent macular degeneration. Milk and dairy products also have certain properties that have been shown to lower high blood pressure and to reduce your risk for stroke and certain types of cancer. To glean the maximum benefits from milk and dairy products, choose products that are all-natural and free from growth hormones and artificial preservatives.