Alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise, the nutrients in dairy are essential for maintaining healthy bones as we age. You may be surprised at how many other benefits there are to eating dairy.

Strong bones

Bone health is dependent on several factors – genetic makeup, regular exercise, adequate calcium intake and sufficient vitamin D.

Osteoporosis occurs when bones have lost calcium and other minerals, increasing their fragility and the risk of fractures.

The protein in dairy is also important as our bones are made up of about 50% protein.

Dental Health

Dairy foods contain calcium, phosphorus and casein which have been shown to protect tooth enamel and reduce tooth decay.

Type 2 Diabetes

The Australian Dietary Guidelines report that eating milk, cheese and yogurt is linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

Other

The Australian Dietary Guidelines have also linked adequate dairy intake to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and colorectal cancer. People who consume dairy are also more likely to have a healthy weight and dairy has been shown to play an important role in sport and exercise performance.

Recommended daily calcium intake

1 – 5 years	800mg
6 – 10 years	1200mg
11 – 24 years	1200 – 1500mg
24 – 50 years	1000mg
50+ years	1500mg
Pregnant and nursing women	1200 – 1500mg