Do dairy foods leach calcium from bones?

Last updated 17/01/2024

Scientific research does not support theories that dairy foods leach calcium from bones. In fact, studies have specifically shown that consuming milk and other dairy foods leads to positive calcium levels, and more calcium is absorbed than excreted. This helps bones become stronger and reduces risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life.

Calcium is a mineral essential for building and maintaining bones; almost 99% of the body’s calcium is found in bones.

Osteoporosis Australia suggests the best way to get your recommended level of calcium is through the diet. If your dietary intake of calcium is too low to maintain adequate calcium levels in the blood, calcium will be released from your bones and this can weaken them.

Milk, cheese and yoghurt are the richest sources of calcium in the Australian diet while also supplying phosphorus, protein and other bone building nutrients.

Scientific research does not support theories that dairy foods leach calcium from bones. In fact, studies have specifically shown that consuming milk and other dairy foods leads to positive calcium levels, and more calcium is absorbed than excreted. This helps bones become stronger and reduces risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life (1).

If we don’t eat enough calcium rich foods (and protein), calcium will be taken from the bones to be used for other body functions and over time bones will become weak and brittle.