Blog
The Protein in Dairy Foods is for More Than Your Muscles
Protein is non-negotiable. We always hear the benefits of protein for muscle health, but it shouldn’t stop there. Along with maintaining muscle mass, men have unique nutritional needs for managing weight and sustaining daily energy levels. To reach nutrition goals, men could benefit from the high-quality nutrients found in dairy. It’s a complete protein and a complete win.
Add Milk: Why Milk Is a Smart Protein Choice for Women
Did you know that 1 in 2 women over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis? This is a powerful reminder that bone health isn’t just a concern for our later years. In fact, the habits we form in our 20s, 30s, and 40s lay the foundation for a lifetime of strength, mobility, and independence. June is National Dairy Month, and it is a great time to talk about how the complete protein in real milk supports bone health and offers an easy, accessible way to boost your intake.
Nutrients in Dairy Support Mental Health and Brain Function
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to recognize and reflect on how our minds and bodies are connected. New studies show that for Americans over the age of 55, the chance of getting dementia is now 42%. This is partly because more people have chronic health issues and the typical American diet is lacking in key nutrients that support cognition and mental health. Nutrition supports our brain health and mental health. Let's look at some foods and key nutrients.
How Dairy Nutrients Support Mom and Baby This Mother’s Day
You may be surprised that dairy can help you through pregnancy, breastfeeding, and introducing foods to your baby. You may know that dairy foods are a good source of calcium, but did you know that they also provide protein, phosphorus, and iodine? Let me tell you how this can help you through every step of your motherhood journey.
Dairy During Pregnancy: Build Tastier and Healthier Snacks
During pregnancy, it is often recommended that moms incorporate snacks throughout their day as their need for more calories and nutrients rises throughout each trimester. Needs and appetite vary, but snacks are a great way to get more nutrients that will support both mom and baby. Dairy foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese contain 7 out of the 14 nutrients identified by the American Academy of Pediatrics as essential in baby’s early brain development.
Sustainability Beyond Dairy Farms: Progressing Forward
When the word sustainability comes to mind, what do you think of? Reducing your carbon footprint? Composting? Environmentally friendly farming practices? If you thought of any of these, you are correct! However, sustainability goes beyond environmental impacts—it also relates to nutrition, affordability, and accessibility.
Dairy Foods Build Better Breakfasts During Pregnancy
In line with the AAP’s recommendations, The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding incorporate foods that contain the nutrients folate, iron, iodine, and choline. Did you know one glass of real dairy milk, lactose-free or not, can meet 40% of a pregnant woman’s needs of iodine? Breakfast is a great meal to maximize!
Dairy Foods and Beverages Help Manage Morning Sickness
Nausea and vomiting often referred to as “morning sickness” are common symptoms of pregnancy. The majority of women do experience some sort of morning sickness during their pregnancy and it most likely will get better with time. It is thought that the fluctuation in hormones associated with pregnancy is to blame, but the exact cause is unknown. Keep reading for tips on how to manage symptoms and when to consult your doctor.
Lactose Intolerance Lessons So You Don’t Break Up with Dairy
The good news is that lactose intolerance does not have to mean dairy avoidance! For individuals with lactose intolerance, there are a variety of lactose-free and lower-lactose dairy options, along with other management strategies that may help them enjoy the taste and nutrition benefits of dairy foods with minimal or no symptoms. If you're experiencing lactose intolerance, try lactose-free milk, hard cheeses, yogurts, or lactose-free versions of your favorite foods.
Dairy Foods Connect Us: Celebrate National Nutrition Month®
Through every age and stage, nutrition remains a crucial tool for healthy growth and development. In some stages of life, there are certain nutrients we pay special attention to. Read along to learn how dairy foods can fit into every stage of life.
March Dairy Madness: Dairy Recipes for the Big Dance®!
Men’s and women’s college basketball teams must eat and drink nutrient-dense foods and beverages to support their success during the tournament. As for the fans and viewers of the competition, nutrient-dense dairy foods can power the energy levels and excitement that every game-winner or defensive stop brings. Support dairy farmers across the Southeast by trying one of these recipes at your next watch party!
Food Connects Us: Explore Where Your Dairy Foods Come From
This National Nutrition Month, I encourage you to attend a virtual dairy farm tour to learn more about where your milk, cheese, and yogurt are coming from. In the Southeast region alone, I have had the privilege of visiting numerous farms through both virtual and in-person visits. If you need some extra inspiration, here are the top 3 things I learned this year working for dairy farmers.
Dairy Foods in African American Cuisine: Tradition and Nutrition
Food is more than nourishment—it’s a thread connecting us to our history, culture, and family. In African American households, dairy has long been a staple. For many it looks different from mainstream nutrition recommendations, but the way in which we eat it can still be very nourishing.
3 Ways Dairy Foods Help Support Your Healthy New Year Goals
The New Year comes with a sense of hope and anticipation of what can be, and for many Americans, that includes resolutions to improve our health. Start 2025 off right and support your health goals with dairy.
5 Things Registered Dietitians Should Know About Dairy Farms
Understanding where food comes from is a vital component of offering sound nutrition advice rooted in real-world knowledge. For registered dietitians (RDs), a basic knowledge of dairy farming is invaluable. Here are five key insights about dairy farms that RDs should know.
Power Through the Holidays With Dairy: Natural Energy for Every Celebration!
Getting through this busy season requires ample energy. On his busiest night of the year, Santa isn’t reaching for a cup of coffee or an energy drink but a chilled glass of real dairy milk.
Tap Into Milk’s Strengths Over Your Holiday Season!
The holiday season is an opportunity to maintain healthy habits without sacrificing flavor. One way to navigate the festive table is by incorporating dairy protein into your meals, snacks & desserts. Here are some tips for healthy holiday eating without missing your mark on protein intake.
Stay Healthy This Holiday Season With Dairy
Want to gift yourself immune support this holiday season?! We have some tasty ideas! As we are hosting gatherings and attending events, our bodies are being exposed to a host of viruses like the common cold and flu. Dairy’s nutrient package contains many important nutrients for immune support.
Promote Balance and Energy with Dairy for Healthy Holiday Habits
We love the holiday season, but all the extra activities can leave us feeling run down and out of sync. The good news is prioritizing balanced nutrition and incorporating dairy foods can help promote energy and overall wellness!
Dairy and Produce—A Perfect Pair
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, more than 80% of Americans have dietary patterns low in vegetables, fruits, and dairy. Combining vegetables and/or fruits with dairy foods is a flavorful way to boost the intake of these under-consumed food groups.