Dairy over 50

Learn how dairy can continue to play an integral role in health and wellbeing for those over 50

Australians aged over 50 are more susceptible to chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis and high blood pressure, which is why regular GP visits are highly recommended.

While dairy foods are known for being linked to healthy bones, according to the Australian Dietary Guidelines, consuming milk, cheese and yoghurt is also linked to a reduced risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes.

On top of the potential health issues we can't see, maintaining a healthy body weight becomes increasingly important as we get older.
The Australian Dietary Guidelines point out that, as part of a balanced diet, milk, cheese and yoghurt are not linked to weight gain or risk of obesity.

Other research shows that people can lose more body weight and body fat if they include 3-4 serves of milk, yoghurt or cheese in their weight-loss diet, compared with weight loss diets low in dairy foods.

The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommendation for the dairy food group for men is:

• 2.5 serves/day for men 19-70 years of age; and,
• 3.5 serves/day for men 70 years of age and over.

The recommendation for milk, cheese, yoghurt and/or alternatives for women is:

• 2.5 serves/day for women 19-50 years of age; and,
• 4 serves/day for women 50 years of age and over.

Why the increase after 50 for women?

Many women over 50 are transitioning through menopause and eating a balanced diet, which includes four serves of dairy foods, becomes even more important to help preserve bone.

Unfortunately, most Australian men and women consume less than that amount and are missing out on the health benefits that the recommended serves provide.