After poring through 324 studies, scientists at Cardiff University say that drinking milk may increase life expectancy for people who have one of several chronic diseases.

In addition, they looked at the data to determine whether coronary heart disease, stroke and diabetes rates were affected when people consumed more milk.

The researchers found that people who drank more milk were 15-20 percent more likely to live longer after being diagnosed with coronary heart disease or suffering a stroke.

More research into the potential mechanisms that the beverage uses to generate this effect is needed, they say, but they are advocating increased milk consumption as a result of the data.

"While growth and bone health are of great importance to health and function, it is the effects of milk and dairy consumption on chronic disease that are of the greatest relevance to reduced morbidity and survival," said co-author Dr Ian Givens.

Another alternative to prescription medications that may improve one’s risk for these diseases is omega-3 fatty acid supplements, which several studies have linked to improved heart health outcomes.