In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets, driven by concerns surrounding bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, digestive issues, and the availability of a wider range of milk and dairy alternatives. This trend is concerning, particularly as women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis and reduced bone density after menopause. Women require more calcium—specifically, 1,000 mg per day for those under 50—but tend to consume less dairy than men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have raised alarms, indicating that the growing number of women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.”
USDA data shows that overall milk consumption has halved since the late 1970s, while farmgate milk prices have significantly dropped. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has risen, with per capita yogurt intake climbing to nearly 15 pounds a year, compared to just two pounds in 1975. Nevertheless, yogurt still does not account for a substantial portion of the total dairy servings consumed by Americans.
In response, the dairy industry is pivoting its focus away from liquid milk, promoting protein-enhanced and functional products, as well as emphasizing the fresh and natural qualities of milk. Research, including recent studies highlighting the benefits of dairy consumption, may bolster the industry’s efforts. However, as more women adopt dietary guidelines advocating for increased plant-based food consumption, the dairy sector—and researchers focused on early menopause—will likely need to work harder to persuade women of the continued importance of dairy for their health, particularly in terms of wls calciumcitrat intake. Ensuring that women understand the role of dairy in meeting their calcium needs is essential, especially as they navigate dietary changes.