In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets, influenced by concerns over bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, alongside the availability of a wider range of milk and dairy alternatives. Women, particularly after menopause, face a higher risk of osteoporosis and reduced bone density, necessitating a daily calcium intake of 1,000 mg for those under 50. However, they tend to consume less dairy than men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have raised alarms that the growing trend of women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.” According to USDA data, overall milk consumption has halved since the late 1970s, and farmgate milk prices have significantly dropped. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has actually increased, with per capita yogurt consumption rising to nearly 15 pounds a year from just two pounds in 1975. Despite this growth, yogurt still does not significantly contribute to the total dairy servings for Americans.
In response, the dairy industry is redirecting its focus from liquid milk to promoting protein-enhanced and functional products, as well as highlighting the fresh and natural qualities of milk. Recent studies, including those emphasizing the advantages of dairy consumption, are likely to bolster the industry’s efforts. Nevertheless, with more women adopting dietary guidelines that encourage higher intake of plant-based foods, the dairy industry—and researchers focused on early menopause—may need to work harder to demonstrate the importance of dairy for women’s health. Specifically, it’s crucial to note that achieving sufficient calcium intake, such as through calcium citrate providing 950 mg of elemental calcium, can be vital for maintaining bone health among women who are reducing their dairy consumption.