Pros:

1. It is recommended for growing children

According to The United States Department of Agriculture, taking dairy products is very important during the periods of childhood and adolescence. One of the main reasons is that calcium can benefit bone mass, which is still being built during this stage. A study also suggested that children who drink cow's milk may grow up to be taller than their counterparts who drink non-dairy substitutes.

2. It can help in lowering blood glucose

A recent study recommends that milk consumed with a high-carbohydrate breakfast could lower blood glucose levels even after lunch - particularly strong with high-protein milk.

Dairy milk naturally contains two high-quality proteins: casein (80 percent) and whey (20 percent). The digestion of these two leads to the release of gastric hormones that slow digestion and help increase feelings of fullness.

3. It provides calcium, vitamin D, and B12

"Cow's milk on its own — without fortification — has 300 milligrams of calcium, which is 30 percent of the recommended daily allowance for most adults," said Dr. Amanda Powell of the Boston Medical Center.

It can also provide a healthy dose of vitamin D - which is needed by the body for the absorption of calcium - when fortified.
"And, one cup of milk has half of the recommended daily allowance of B12," Powell also noted.

Cons:

1. It has a lot more calories than you would expect

Dairy milk is high in calorie value — just one cup of 2 percent milk is said to contain about 120 calories. Consuming one glass per meal would add up to 360 calories, which makes up 20 percent of the recommended caloric intake for the day.

To cut down on consumption, try to drink coffee or tea every day without milk. Dr. Gail Cresci from the Cleveland Clinic recommends sticking to one glass of milk per day.

2. It contains lactose, which can be harmful

Lactose (a dairy sugar) cannot be digested and broken down by everyone's bodies or those who are lactose intolerant. It can cause symptoms like cramps, diarrhea, gas, nausea, and bloating.

Experts suggest removing dairy from your diet to find out whether the symptoms subside. You can also try to visit a doctor, who can confirm the diagnosis with the help of a lactose tolerance test, a hydrogen breath test, or a stool acidity test.

3. It can wreak havoc on your skin, causing acne

Cow's milk is capable of causing inflammation, triggering a breakout. The milk contains a hormone known as IGF-1 which is released by whey and casein - which promote the formation of acne.