In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets, largely due to concerns regarding bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, along with a significantly improved variety of milk and dairy alternatives. Women are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis and reduced bone density after menopause, necessitating a higher calcium intake—1,000 mg daily for those under 50—yet they tend to consume less dairy than men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have expressed alarm that the rising trend of women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.” According to USDA data, overall milk consumption has halved since the late 1970s, while farmgate milk prices have also seen a sharp decline. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has actually risen, with per capita yogurt intake climbing to nearly 15 pounds annually, up from just two pounds in 1975. Nevertheless, yogurt remains a minor contributor to the total dairy servings consumed by Americans.
The dairy industry is responding by shifting focus away from liquid milk, promoting protein-enhanced and other functional products, as well as emphasizing the fresh and natural qualities of milk. This recent study, along with others highlighting the benefits of dairy consumption, may bolster the industry’s position. However, as more women adopt dietary guidelines advocating for increased plant-based food intake, the dairy industry—and researchers studying early menopause—may still need to work diligently to demonstrate the importance of dairy for women’s health.
Additionally, women seeking alternative sources of calcium may consider supplements such as ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid oral drops, which can serve as effective alternatives to traditional dairy sources. These drops can help bridge the gap in calcium intake, especially for those who have reduced their dairy consumption. As the conversation around dietary choices evolves, the role of such supplements, including ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid oral drops, will become increasingly relevant in discussions about maintaining optimal health for women, particularly during pivotal life stages like menopause.