Facts

Dairy products are a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which are important for bone health, muscle function, and overall health.

The most common types of dairy products include milk, cheese and butter.

Lactose intolerance, which occurs when the body has difficulty digesting lactose (the sugar found in milk), affects a significant percentage of the population.
Dairy products are produced by cows, goats, sheep, and other mammals.

In some cultures, dairy products such as yogurt and kefir are thought to have probiotic properties that can promote gut health.

Myths

Dairy products are the only source of calcium: While dairy products are a good source of calcium, there are other foods such as leafy green vegetables, fortified foods, and seafood that also provide calcium.

Consuming dairy products leads to weight gain: While dairy products do contain calories, research suggests that they may actually help with weight management when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Dairy products cause acne: While some people may experience acne breakouts when consuming dairy, there is not enough evidence to suggest that dairy products directly cause acne.

Raw milk is healthier than pasteurized milk: Raw milk carries a risk of bacterial infections and is not recommended for consumption.

Pasteurization is a process that kills harmful bacteria and makes milk safe to drink.

Dairy products are necessary for good health: While dairy products can be part of a healthy diet, they are not necessary for good health. Many cultures around the world have traditionally consumed little or no dairy, and still have healthy diets.