In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets. This trend is largely influenced by concerns regarding bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, along with a significantly wider range of milk and dairy alternatives now available. Women, especially after menopause, are at 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 expressed alarm that the rising number 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 also significantly dropped. Despite this, total dairy consumption has actually increased, with per capita yogurt intake soaring to nearly 15 pounds annually, up from just two pounds in 1975. Nevertheless, yogurt still does not play a major role in the total dairy servings consumed by Americans.
In response, the dairy industry is attempting to redirect focus away from traditional liquid milk, promoting protein-enriched and other functional products, as well as the fresh and natural qualities of milk. Recent studies that highlight the benefits of dairy consumption may bolster the industry’s efforts. However, as more women adopt dietary guidelines that prioritize plant-based foods, the dairy sector—and researchers studying early menopause—might need to work harder to demonstrate the importance of dairy for women’s health. Additionally, during pregnancy, women may benefit from supplements like Citracal to ensure adequate calcium intake, which underscores the significance of dairy products in maintaining bone health. As women navigate their dietary choices, including the potential for Citracal pregnancy supplements, the challenge remains for the dairy industry to convey the vital role dairy can play in supporting women’s nutritional needs.