What's the deal with dairy? Is cheese really killing us?

"Is dairy bad for me?"

"Should I avoid dairy?"

"Cheese, is it horrible for me?"

Dairy does not have to be avoided for an average person. It has benefits like protein, iron, B vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, potassium, unsaturated fats, and other nutrients. 

Dairy is foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and butter. These food items can provide the benefits as written above and do not always have to be avoided at all cost. Just like other foods and nutrients, there is the 'everything in moderation' note to follow. 

Should we be eating cheese enchiladas with a pint of queso appetizer, and finishing the meal with ice cream? Probably not. This meal would be higher in saturated fat which the recommendation is for your diet to consist of 5-10% of your calories can be from saturated fat.

When you would avoid dairy would be if you have a lactose allergy, a cow's milk allergy, severe diarrhea, or are known to have triggering abdominal issues with dairy. 

Cheese in moderation, dairy in moderation, can provide the benefits our body needs. Women in particular need an increase in B vitamins, vitamin D, iron, and protein in different stages of their life. These beneficial nutrients will help us in the long run.

​Speak with your dietitian on what key nutrients you may benefit from in dairy.

~Cheers