In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets due to concerns regarding bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues. This shift has coincided with a wider availability of milk and dairy alternatives. Women, particularly after menopause, face a heightened risk of osteoporosis and reduced bone density, necessitating higher calcium intake—1,000 mg daily for those under 50. However, women generally consume less dairy than men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have warned that the rising trend of women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.” According to USDA statistics, milk consumption across all demographics has halved since the late 1970s, and farmgate milk prices have significantly dropped. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has increased, with per capita yogurt intake soaring to nearly 15 pounds a year, compared to just two pounds in 1975. Nevertheless, yogurt remains a minor contributor to the overall dairy servings consumed by Americans.
In response, the dairy industry is shifting its focus away from liquid milk and is actively promoting protein-enhanced and other functional products, as well as the fresh and natural qualities of milk. Recent studies highlighting the benefits of dairy consumption could bolster the industry’s position. However, as more women adopt dietary guidelines that emphasize plant-based foods, both the dairy industry and researchers studying early menopause may need to work harder to demonstrate the importance of dairy, including liquid calcium citrate with vitamin D3, for women’s health. This specific supplement is essential for those avoiding dairy, as it provides a vital source of calcium and promotes better bone health. As the discourse continues, the dairy sector’s challenge will be to effectively convey that dairy, including options like liquid calcium citrate with vitamin D3, remains significant for women’s nutritional needs.