HEALTHY BONES ACTION WEEK

Healthy Bones Action Week | 12 - 18 August

Australian Dairy’s annual Healthy Bones Action Week initiative takes place this year from 12 – 18 August and aims to educate Australians about the importance of bone health and encourages them to take action to protect their bones throughout life.

 

Bone health in young women

Bones stop growing by 18, but peak bone density isn't reached until our late 20s. Consuming calcium-rich dairy like milk, cheese, and yoghurt during young adulthood is critical for strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

A recent Dairy Australia survey found that 18–25-year-olds aren't often prioritising bone health. Nearly 90% of young women see its importance, yet it ranks lowest among their health concerns, with most unaware of their daily dairy needs.* Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend 2.5 servings for adults aged 18-50.

Three simple actions

Australians can look after and maintain strong bones by incorporating three simple actions to their daily routine: 

  • Consume: calcium-rich dairy foods such as milk, cheese and yogurt 
  • Exercise: Do weight bearing exercise, such as running or playing a sport
  • Vitamin D: Through safe sun exposure. Be sun safe by wearing a hat and applying sunscreen outside

    •  

    Serve of dairy

    Dairy foods are tasty and can easily be added to your favourite recipes. Incorporating dairy into your diet is easier than you think. Enjoy a cup of milk in a breakfast smoothie, add two slices of cheese to your lunch sandwich or salad, have ¾ cup of yoghurt as an afternoon snack, or mix ½ cup of ricotta into your dinner pasta. For more dairy recipe ideas, visit our Dairy Kitchen. 

    Three simple actions

    *Omnibus research – Calcium intake in men and women aged between 18-25 years old, conducted by Lewers on behalf of Dairy Australia, between 12-16 June, survey sample size of 387.