Dairy contains calcium, and its consumption increases bone mass, which is crucial among young and old. Osteoporosis causes bone to become fragile, increasing the risk for fracture, especially of the hip. This disease is usually “invisible” until after sixty, which stresses the importance of calcium intake throughout life. This, combined with adequate exercise and sufficient Vitamin D intake can go a long way to keep bones healthy and strong.

Various studies have confirmed a blood pressure lowering effect of the consumption of dairy foods. This beneficial effect is not solely derived from calcium, but from the complete nutritional profile of dairy products which include the synergy of minerals, vitamins, proteins and essential fatty acids.

Obesity is a risk factor for many health conditions and diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. People who consume more calcium from dairy foods weigh less and / or have less body fat than those who consume little or no dairy. Evidence indicates that the mix of nutrients in dairy, especially calcium and protein, may be responsible for helping the body break down and burn fat.

CLA in dairy foods confers a wide range of anti-carcinogenic benefits. It is a trans fatty acid found naturally in dairy. Not only does it possibly reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, but an adequate intake of CLA has also shown to reduce abdominal fat in humans.