‘Premium Milk’ Fortified with More Protein, Less Sugar

A new milk packed with more protein and less sugar than the regular ‘ole milk we are used to is rolling out to grocery stores nationwide. The new product called Fairlife is made much like skim milk. Through a filtration process the components are suspended and more of the favorable components are put back into the milk, including 50 percent more protein, 30 percent more calcium and 50 percent less sugar than regular milk, AND it’s lactose free.

The product was developed as an answer to Americans continual quest for products with added benefits, such as vitamins and minerals, and less sugar. No doubt protein and calcium are important for people of all ages, and this is another product for people who can’t tolerate lactose, but there are more ways than milk to get your calcium. Without enough calcium your body actually takes calcium from bones to ensure normal cell function, which can lead to weakened cell function. If your child doesn’t like milk or has a lactose-intolerance issue, consider these other calcium-rich options: 

• Cheese and yogurt. Not for the lactose-intolerant, but for all others, kids love this stuff. Buy the yogurt sticks and freeze them. It’s like an ice-cream treat that’s less sugar, more probiotics.

• Salmon. Canned or fresh, it’s full of calcium. My child loves salmon. We make salmon tacos or a salmon pasta with parmesan. And for the adventurous child (and parent), try salmon sushi rolls. Sardines are also packed with bone-building calcium.

• Leafy greens. B is for broccoli that helps build bones! Broccoli is a calcium-rich food, along with edamame. Edamame can be a great snack or are easily packed in lunchboxes.

• White beans. How about a batch of white bean, chicken chili in the crockpot? Just go light on the spice.

• Almonds. Eat about 20 almonds and you’ve got yourelf 75 milligrams of calcium. Almonds can also be ground and included in oatmeal or smoothies.

And just like Fairlife, there are other calcium-fortified foods, including orange juice, cereal and crackers. What’s your favorite ways to be sure your family (including YOU) are getting enough calcium. We’d love to hear! Share in the comments below.