Once again, we are blessed with another June Dairy Month. Thank you to America’s dairy farmers.

Yes, June Dairy Month is a promotion by the U.S. dairy industry, but it serves as an important reminder to consumers of the tremendous nutrient package contained in milk, particularly cow’s milk, and the many dairy products that are made from it.

Milk is perhaps best known for its high calcium and vitamin D content, which health advocates say are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Regular consumption of milk can help prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of bone fractures.

The high-quality protein that is found in milk also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent source for muscle growth and repair. This is especially beneficial for athletes, individuals engaging in regular physical activity and older adults.

Milk contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure by balancing sodium levels in the body. Some studies suggest that a diet high in potassium-rich foods, including milk, can even lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Drinking milk, particularly low-fat or fat-free varieties, can aid weight management by providing a feeling of fullness due to its protein content. Calcium in milk has been linked to fat breakdown and reduced fat absorption in the body.

Milk is a good source of vitamins A and D, as well as zinc and selenium, all of which play a vital role in supporting a healthy immune system. These nutrients help the body fend off infections and promote overall well-being.

A lesser-known fact perhaps is the iodine in milk, which is essential for proper brain development, particularly during pregnancy. Adequate iodine intake supports cognitive function and reduces the risk of developmental delays in children.

Lastly, B vitamins found in milk, particularly riboflavin (B2) and vitamin B12, are essential for energy production and a healthy metabolism. These vitamins help convert food into energy and support overall metabolic function.

Health studies, research, and nutrition science have evolved in the past decade to show neutral or positive benefits of full-fat dairy foods such as whole milk, including less weight gain, neutral or lower risk of heart disease, and lower childhood obesity. The old slogan, “Milk does a body good,” was true back then and is still true today.

Plant-based beverages cannot make claims like these and that may be the reason for their shrinking in popularity. I have written many times in the past, encouraging shoppers to read the ingredients on the labels to see what is in these products to make them at least taste good.

Do some research on the impacts to the environment that result from the production of these plant-based products versus naturally produced cow’s milk on the farm.

Sustainability is an important consideration and Dairy Management Incorporated states on its website that the dairy industry is “dedicated to addressing climate change and water quality while providing nutritious and affordable foods that will nourish generations to come.” The dairy industry has put its money where its mouth is too.

“Every day, dairy farmers impact the land, water and air we all share. But as good environmental stewards, they have always innovated and adopted new practices and technologies to produce the same amount of food using fewer natural resources yet still provide all the same great nutrition.

“U.S. dairy is doing more to drive down greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, and enable renewable energy adoption. We will upcycle more waste into more resources, and we will invest and advance excellence in animal care.

“As part of this pledge, the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, founded by America’s dairy farmers, has set aggressive environmental sustainability goals to achieve greenhouse gas neutrality, optimize water usage and improve water quality by 2050.

“We’re delivering for today while investing in tomorrow through innovation, science and a commitment to meaningfully contribute to a sustainable future for generations to come.”

There are volumes of information available at the Dairy Management Incorporated website. Log on and explore at https://www.usdairy.com/

Enjoy your dairy products, America. They’re good for you, your family, and your planet. Let’s make America Dairy Again!