Understanding the Health Benefits Of The Dairy Group
The dairy group should be eaten every day as part of a well-balanced meal. Dairy is recommended by the USDA because of the high amount of calcium and vitmain D nutrients. These nutrients are especially important for children who are still producing new bone cells as they continue to grow.
However, it is possible to get your vitamin D and calcium from other food sources besides the dairy group.
The USDA My Plate shows the dairy group as one of the important foods needed daily.
The USDA My Plate recommends that you and your children drink fat-free or 1% (low fat) milk for a healthier lower fat diet.
Most dairy drinks and foods are high in:
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calcium
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potasssium
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vitamin D
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protein
Dairy products tend to be high in saturated fats and cholesterol. That is why the USDA recommends that children two years and older and adults drink or eat low fat (1%) or fat-free dairy products.
Milk products are high in calcium and vitamin D. They also have other minerals and vitamins that are important for children and adults because it:
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builds and maintains strong bones by increasing bone mass
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builds and maintains strong teeth
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helps maintain a healthy blood pressure
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