By the St. Louis District Dairy Council
ST. LOUIS – As the United States of America gears up for the 2024 Summer Olympics, competitors and their accomplishments will be in the spotlight, offering inspiration to all. While most Americans may not be top-tier athletes, they can make small changes to their daily routine to enhance their nutrition and activity levels. These small improvements can be as easy as adding more nutritious foods, like milk, to daily diets. There is no better time than June Dairy Month to boost energy and stamina by enjoying a glass of nutrient-packed milk.
“National Dairy Month is an opportune time to showcase how milk sets the standard for performance,” said Jessica Kassel, registered dietitian and nutrition educator with St. Louis District Dairy Council. “Nutrient-dense foods that help fuel activity and recovery are a must-have for athletes, and milk and dairy foods are at the top of the list.”
Everyday athletes of all ages can take advantage of milk’s nutrition. Research shows that chocolate milk, specifically, is a powerful recovery drink. It has the ideal mix of carbohydrates and protein to help repair muscles and replenish energy stores. Chocolate milk also provides electrolytes that help rehydrate the body. As a stand-alone beverage or incorporated into smoothies or snacks, it offers a guaranteed energy boost. Parents can rest assured that young athletes are getting a nutrient-rich drink when they pour a glass at home after practice.
From Grass to Glass
With 13 essential nutrients that help bodies perform at the highest level, milk is an excellent choice for all individuals, not just competitive athletes. More than a refreshing drink, milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used to enhance meals throughout the day. Adding it to cereals, smoothies, or eggs in the morning can help wake up brains and bodies. Using milk in soups and casseroles adds extra flavor and nutrition to lunch and dinner meals. Incorporating milk in all meals can help individuals reach the recommended three servings of dairy daily. “Whether building up breakfast or boosting a snack, milk allows individuals to be the champion of their day,” Kassel said.
With so many varieties of real dairy milk on grocery store shelves, there is a milk for everybody. New options include lactose-free milk in a variety of sizes, along with shelf-stable milk, which is perfect for summer road trips. With its gold medal worthy nutrition, milk delivers the complete package of high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and great taste. During National Dairy Month we honor the dairy farmers who work hard every day to produce this winning beverage. Here’s to them and to milk, the nutrient powerhouse, that is perfect for everybody!
For more information on June Dairy Month and the benefits of milk, visit www.stldairycouncil.org or contact Jessica Kassel at 314-835-9668 or jkassel@STLDairyCouncil.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at STLDairyCouncil.
Homemade Chocolate Milk Pudding
This homemade chocolate milk pudding is the perfect mix of sweet and creamy, leaving your taste buds wanting more! Have this snack after exercise for a new recovery snack or enjoy as a delicious treat at the end of the day.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
2 ¼ cups of chocolate milk
¼ cup of sugar
3 Tbsp. of cornstarch
2 large egg yolks
1 Tbsp. of butter
1 ½ Tbsp. of vanilla extract
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch and egg yolks. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat for about 8 minutes. Whisk occasionally, until the mixture is bubbling throughout.
- Once the mixture is bubbling, continue cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, whisking a few times. Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla extract. The pudding will still be pourable and not too thick. It will thicken as it cools.
- Serve it warm or place into an airtight container and refrigerate.
Summer snacking tip: While the pudding is still hot, pour it into popsicle molds and freeze for a delicious summer treat everyone can enjoy!
The St. Louis District Dairy Council (SLDDC) is a nonprofit nutrition education organization funded by local dairy farmers. Since 1932, SLDDC has served 131 counties in central/southern Illinois and eastern Missouri as the go-to educational resource and advocate for the role of dairy foods as part of a healthful diet. As The Nutrition Education People, we are proud to spread knowledge to local communities, bridging the gap between local dairy farmers and consumers. The staff is comprised of professionals with experience in nutrition, food service management, education and communication, and we take pride in delivering engaging programs throughout the communities we serve.