Vitamins in Milk

Milk is commonly associated with bone health, mainly due to its high content of the mineral calcium. What some people may not realize is that milk and other dairy products such as yogurt and cheese also contain a variety of vitamins essential to well-being. While milk with a higher fat content (whole milk and even reduced-fat milk) contains saturated fat and cholesterol, both of which may negatively impact health, low-fat and fat-free milk can be included in a nutritious diet.

Vitamin A

• Since vitamin A is found in the fat portion of milk, whole milk is superior in vitamin A content. Reduced-fat, low-fat and fat-free milk must be fortified with the vitamin to be considered a good source. Vitamin A is important for immune function and eyesight.

Vitamin D

• Required for calcium absorption, vitamin D promotes bone health. Since milk is fortified with this nutrient, it is among one of the few foods that provide a significant amount of the vitamin.

Vitamin B12

• Vitamin B-12 is found primarily in animal products, including milk. One cup of milk provides about 15 percent of the vitamin's daily value, making it a good source. Vitamins B-12 assists DNA synthesis and the formation of red blood cells.

Thiamin

• Also referred to as vitamin B-1, thiamin or thiamine, helps the body metabolize carbohydrates for energy. Milk provides a fair amount of thiamin per 1 cup serving.

Riboflavin

• Riboflavin is known as vitamin B-2 and, like thiamin, is also important in converting carbohydrates into energy the body can use. One cup contains about 24 percent of the daily value for riboflavin.