ARE YOU THINKING OF QUITTING DAIRY?

Are You Thinking Of Quitting Dairy?

 Kate is a "local" where I live a writes regular articles about health and diet. I REALLY think this is a great article to share on my Venus Factor website as this thought provoking view from Kate is especially important to women. 

So please read on ..............

A recent study by the CSIRO (an Australian Government Science Body) has found that one in six people are avoiding dairy foods.

The survey showed that the majority of those who avoid dairy foods do so because of symptoms like bloating, cramps and wind.

Each individual has the right to decide which foods they consume, but if you do fall into the category above it's important to seek medical advice rather than self-diagnosing, as there may be a health condition that is going untreated.

For those that choose not to consume dairy for reasons including ethical concerns and issues with taste, it's important to know how to ensure you're still getting enough calcium in your diet.

To reach your daily requirements adults need to consume around 1000mg of calcium, with 1300mg recommended  for teens, women over 50 and men over 70.

Generally when people go dairy free they swap to plant based milk sources, including soy, almond, rice and oat milk. While these can be nutritious alternatives, it's important to check the nutrition labeling to ensure the product has been fortified with calcium.

Some brands contain more calcium than others so look out for those that contain approximately 300mg per serve. This is the equivalent of the calcium content of a glass of cow's milk.

Along with fortified plant based milks, and calcium fortified breads and cereals, plant foods like tofu, green leafy vegetables and almonds also contain calcium. Keep in mind though that the calcium content of these foods is lower than dairy, so it's best to incorporate them into your diet alongside calcium fortified products.

Many Australians struggle to reach their daily calcium requirements so these plant foods can be a beneficial addition to the diet. (And I'm sure this would apply to people in many other Countries).

If you're not sure whether you're getting enough calcium in your diet it's best to speak to an accredited practicing dietician.

And remember, weight bearing exercise and Vitamin D, from food and sunlight, also contribute to bone health. So do your skeleton a favor and get moving!

 
This post is from :  westernweekender.com.au
Publish date : June 9, 2016

The author is Kate Reid. She can be contacted on Twitter :  @kate_reid6

Kate is a journalist and qualified Nutritionist with a Bachelor of Science (Nutrition) Degree from the University of Wollongong.


Kate does not have any affiliation with this website and does not necessarily agree with the claims of the Venus Factor program. I am just a fan of health and dietary issues she chooses to write about and think they are worth sharing.

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