What nutrients are in milk?

Last updated 17/01/2024

The Australian Dietary Guidelines use the best available scientific evidence to provide information on the types and amounts of food that promote good health and reduce the risk of disease. They state that the milk, cheese and yoghurt food group offers a number health benefits and is a good source of many nutrients including calcium in an easy to absorb form.¹ Other important nutrients include vitamins A, B12 and riboflavin, potassium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorous, carbohydrate and protein. Read more about the role of these different nutrients in our bodies.

For children and adolescents the milk, cheese and yoghurt food group provides essential nutrients for growth and development. For adults, along with protecting bone health throughout life, the Australian Dietary Guidelines say that eating milk, cheese and yoghurt can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer – some of the main causes of death in Australia.¹ There is also significant research on the positive role of milk and dairy foods for performance in active people and athletes.²

Unfortunately, the most recent Australian health survey revealed that only 10% of Australians were consuming enough milk, cheese and yoghurt for optimal health so most people should focus on boosting their daily intakes.³

Find out how much of the dairy food group is recommended for your age and gender.