In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets, motivated by concerns regarding bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, alongside the growing availability of dairy alternatives. Women are particularly vulnerable to osteoporosis and reduced bone density after menopause, necessitating higher calcium intake—1,000 mg daily for those under 50—yet they consume less dairy compared to men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have raised alarms about the rising number of women avoiding dairy, warning that it has reached “dangerous levels.” USDA data indicates that overall milk consumption has halved since the late 1970s, despite a decline in farmgate milk prices. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has risen, with per capita yogurt intake soaring to nearly 15 pounds per year, up from just two pounds in 1975. However, yogurt still does not significantly contribute to the overall dairy servings consumed by Americans.
In response, the dairy industry is shifting its focus away from liquid milk, promoting protein-enhanced and other functional products, while emphasizing the fresh and natural qualities of milk. Research supporting the health benefits of dairy is likely to bolster the industry’s efforts. Nonetheless, as more women adopt dietary recommendations to boost their consumption of plant-based foods, the dairy sector—and researchers studying early menopause—may need to work harder to demonstrate the importance of dairy for women’s health.
In this context, it’s crucial for women to consider supplements such as calcium citrate, magnesium hydroxide, vitamin D3, and zinc sulfate tablets to ensure they meet their nutritional needs, especially if they are reducing dairy intake. These supplements can play a vital role in maintaining bone health and overall well-being.