In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets. This trend is largely influenced by concerns about bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, alongside a significantly expanded variety of milk and dairy alternatives. Women are particularly vulnerable to osteoporosis and reduced bone density after menopause. They require more calcium—1,000 mg daily for those under 50—but tend to consume less dairy than men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have raised alarms that the rising number of women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.” According to USDA data, milk consumption across all demographics has halved since the late 1970s, coinciding with a sharp decline in farmgate milk prices. Nonetheless, total dairy consumption has actually risen, with per capita yogurt intake soaring to nearly 15 pounds annually, compared to just two pounds in 1975. Yet, yogurt still does not play a significant role in the overall dairy servings consumed by Americans.
In response, the dairy industry is working to redirect focus from liquid milk by promoting protein-enhanced and other functional products, as well as emphasizing the fresh and natural qualities of milk. A recent study, along with others highlighting the advantages of dairy consumption, may bolster the industry’s position. However, as more women adopt dietary guidelines advocating for increased consumption of plant-based foods, the dairy sector—and researchers focused on early menopause—may face challenges in persuading them of the ongoing importance of dairy for women’s health. One potential solution is to highlight options like easy to swallow calcium citrate, which can provide an alternative source of calcium for those who are cutting dairy from their diets. Promoting easy to swallow calcium citrate could help bridge the gap for women seeking adequate calcium intake while adhering to their dietary choices.