Dairy foods are essential for a healthy diet. They contain many important nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, B vitamins and high-quality protein.

The picture to the left shows some examples of dairy foods: milk, cheese, and yogurt.

Improved bone density, improved blood pressure, and increased metabolism are all great benefits that come from including dairy foods in our diet.

The best dairy choices are:

• no-fat or low-fat milk
• plain non-fat yogurt
• non-fat light yogurt
• unflavored soy milk (especially if lactose intolerant)

Sometimes the switch to non-fat dairy can be difficult. It is usually recommended to change from 2% milk to 1% first. Once accustomed to this, then change to no-fat milk.

Healthy eating for children includes dairy foods. And as a bonus, they truly are desirable!