Mar 7, 2023

 by Isabelle Birdsall

Is dairy good for you?

Dairy products are an excellent source of essential nutrients including calcium, vitamins, and minerals. However, some people may have to avoid dairy due to allergens, intolerance, or personal reasons.

If I must avoid dairy, how can I still get calcium, vitamins, and minerals in my diet?

If you find you must avoid dairy but would still like to incorporate sources of calcium, vitamins, and minerals in your diet, great alternatives include fortified plant milks, tofu, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, legumes, and fortified breakfast cereals.

What are the most common dairy products?

Milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and cream are some of the most common dairy products. 

What are some things to keep in mine when incorporating dairy into my diet?

While dairy is an excellent source of nutrients, some dairy products are high in fat and calories. It is important to consume dairy products in moderation as part of a balance diet.

What is the recommended amount of dairy intake for adults?

According to the USDA, the daily recommended intake varies by age group:

Adults 19 years-50 years: 3 cups

Adults 51 years and older: 2.5 cups for women and 3 cups for men

What are some healthy ways to incorporate dairy into my diet?

Drinking a glass of milk with breakfast, added cheese to a salad at lunch, eating yogurt with fresh fruits and granola as a snack, and using butter for cooking are all healthy ways to incorporate dairy into the diet.