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- June is Dairy Month
Video describing June as Dairy Month, set to music.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, we need to include dairy as part of the MyPlate. Current dietary guidelines recommend three servings of low-fat or fat-free milk, cheese or yogurt daily, acknowledging that the dairy group contributes many important nutrients. These recommendations are supported by scientific evidence that shows milk, as part of a balanced diet, has been associated with improved bone health, lower risk of cardiovascular disease, reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes and improvements in weight management.
According to the National Dairy Council, milk is filled with nine essential nutrients that benefit health. An 8 ounce glass of cow’s milk is an excellent source of protein, calcium, vitamins A and D, vitamin B12, riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), phosphorus and pantothenic acid (B5). Whether it’s fat-free, low-fat, lactose-free or flavored, the Food and Drug Administration mandates that cow’s milk is not only safe to drink, but that it meets a standard of identity – meaning that it contains all of these nutrients in the same amounts in every glass. Milk is a natural product without added sugars, stabilizers or flavorings, which are often found in the ingredient lists of nondairy milk alternatives. Typically, milk has three ingredients – milk, vitamin A and vitamin D. Milk is one of only two “go-to” beverages recommended for children ages 1-5. The other recommended beverage is water. In fact, milk is the number one source of energy, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D and zinc for infants and young children, making it a “critical component of a healthy diet.”
Dairy farmers work hard to provide fresh milk and dairy products from happy cows. Fresh liquid milk produced on dairy farms in Louisiana, in other states in the southeast and around the country is brought to consumers in 48 hours or two day.
Weight bearing exercise is also important for strong bones. Running, jumping, walking, and sports using your legs for movement are considered weight bearing. Only two activities: swimming and bicycling are the exception and are not weight bearing. Keep your body strong to resist infection by adopting a salubrious lifestyle.https://www.usdairy.com/about-us/national-dairy-council
