Traffic pollution linked to childhood allergies, study says (Reuters)

Reuters - German researchers say they have found some of the strongest evidence yet linking traffic pollution to childhood allergies.

Sit down and be ready to learn some very fascinating things about milk. It really does a body good and can benefit you in ways that you may have never realized. I was pleasantly surprised to learn the following facts and now include milk in my daily diet.

#1. Milk hydrates better than water or sports drinks! According to a 5k3cy3 from the British Journal of Nutrition. They did a study that compared milk, water or Powerade and found that the milk drinkers retained 69% fluid. In contrast water drinkers retained 36% and Powerade drinkers at 38%. The milk drinkers were almost 50% higher. The study concluded that the sodium and potassium in milk may help cells retain water better. Don't confuse this with unwanted water retention though. You really want this type of water retention after exercise (and even stress) because it enables your body to use these nutrients needed to recover.

#2. Milk contains protein and protein helps you curb your appetite. If you feel really hungry drink a glass of milk and you may just find it will curb your appetite.

#3. Milk is a ethyl ester hcl post workout tool. Not only because of fact #1 but also because milk contains a great mix of carbs and high quality protein, as well as vitamins and minerals in a super blend. Research indicates that milk has all the essential qualities needed as a post-exercise pickup. Be sure to drink your milk 30 minutes after your workout for optimum results.

#4. An expert on milk said that chocolate milk contains an optimal carbohydrate to protein ratio, which is critical for helping refuel tired muscles.

So to replenish your body successfully, you don't really need all those fancy sport drinks because milk works just fine. In order to keep fat and calories to a minimum be sure to drink skim milk. And if you are like me and your palate can not take regular milk opt for chocolate milk instead (low fat of course).

Here's to your health! Kathie

Kathie Ingram Owen is a Certified Fitness Trainer with Certified Expertise in Athlete & Older Adult Fitness. She enjoys helping others achieve a well-rounded self through fitness: mind, body and spirit. Kathie provides online fitness training to clients all over the world. She also trains clients in person and is a Certified Fitness Instructor teaching a variety of aerobic classes. Check out her website to find out more.