Do You Do Dairy Daily?

 

Do you do dairy daily? Say that five times! Dairy products, if tolerated are an important part of your daily plate. Consuming dairy products provides many health benefits, especially improved bone health. Dairy products provide your body with needed calcium, potassium, vitamin D and protein.

How much dairy do you need in a day? As with all of the other food groups, it depends on your age, gender and activity level. On the average it is recommended you consume about 3 cups per day. See the chart below to determine what counts as a cup of dairy.

 



The vitamins and nutrients provided from dairy products are an important part of the health and maintenance of your body.

• Calcium is used for building bones and teeth and helps maintain bone mass.
• Potassium helps to maintain a healthy blood pressure.
• Vitamin D helps the body to maintain proper levels of calcium and phosphorus.

If you are intolerant to dairy products there are other sources of calcium including calcium fortified cereals, juices, breads and rice milk or almond milk. Additionally soy products, some beans and leafy greens contain calcium.

A balanced healthy meal plan is important. Including foods from all food groups should be a part of that plan.  For more information visit MMHD.