Dairy foods are an excellent source of several essential nutrients that work together to help protect bones, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, protein and vitamin D. By enjoying three servings of low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt or cheese every day as part of an overall healthy diet, families, especially children and adolescents in their peak bone-building years, can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Growing up, you've been told about the benefits of dairy. Mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and every other family member has insisted you consume dairy, especially milk, to grow strong and healthy. Have you ever wondered though, what are the actual health benefits of dairy, and how and why it affects your body? Nutrients in dairy, which include calcium, potassium, vitamin D, and protein, are those responsible for the health and maintenance of your body.