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Parkersburg, WV - Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department recognizes the month of June as National Dairy Month. This is an annual tradition that celebrates the contributions the dairy industry has made to the world and as a reminder of the health benefits dairy foods can play in a healthy diet for all ages. National Dairy Month started as National Milk Month in 1937 to promote drinking milk when production was at a surplus.
Dairy products like milk contain nine essential nutrients which may help individuals better manage weight, reduce the risk of high-blood pressure, help repair muscles after exercise and help promote stronger bones. Dairy is a natural nutrient powerhouse and without milk products in a daily meal plan, it would be difficult to reach the recommended daily calcium intake.
U.S. Dietary guidelines vary for each age group. Children 1-8 years old need 2 servings (16 oz. of milk) and 9 year-olds through adulthood need 3 servings or 24 oz. Sometimes stomach issues make it difficult to drink milk but now there are lactose reduced milk, yogurt and cheese that might be more tolerable.
Some tips for including more dairy food in a daily diet include: dips for fruit and vegetables made from yogurt, fruit yogurt smoothies, use string cheese as a quick snack, and choose milk for a dinner beverage.
If you would like more information about milk and your diet, contact June Rhodes, MOVHD registered dietician at 304-485-7374.
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