Dairy Queen

15% of a balanced
diet
Typical
calories per 100g = 50kcal to 450kcal
We all need vitamins and minerals on a day to day
basis. Did you know that the dairy queen, yogurt is rich vitamins and
minerals?
Read on to learn how milk and dairy
products can be ideal in our diets. Plus, learn the best way to absorb
calcium. Or click here to learn more about vitamins
and Minerals.
Wait! What if I am lactose
intolerant or a vegan?
Whilst there are fewer options
available, dairy free options, do exist and are easy to find. Remember
it's the nutrients in milk products and dairy produce that are most
important. You don't have to be drinking soya milk all day to have a
balanced diet.
I will be providing tips and
alternatives throughout, so sit tight.
Calcium... Who needs it?
The obvious answer is that we all need
calcium for healthy teeth, bones and nails but there are other reasons.
It is also used to help keep our bodies fluid, strengthen our hair and
control our muscles.
How much do we need?
Generally, the RDA of calcium for
healthy adults is 800mg. The RDA seen on yogurt packs is usually 800mg
but it can vary from 500mg to 1500mg for those that are pregnant or over
45.
Do I really need to watch the amount
of calcium I have?
Since it tells you the calcium content
on most packs, it is good to note how much you have. This way, it is
very easy to see if you are having enough dairy products, without
worrying about the 15% you need. If you have a little extra you should
be fine. Our bodies store that calcium in our bones and is used when
needed.
Why is yogurt the dairy queen?
I just think that it's an appropriate
title. Yoghurt is by far the dairy queen. Low fat options (anything less
than 1g per 100g) are rich in calcium. In fact, you'll find it hard to
find a calcium rich alternative that tastes so good. Also, dairy
free/lactose free alternatives exist. Making it a great choice for
vegans and those who are lactose intolerant.
I call it the dairy queen because you
can do a lot with yoghurt and not worry too much about the calories. It
has much more calcium than milk and some cheeses.
Many of the lactose free (AKA dairy
free) alternatives are just as rich in essential vitamins and minerals
as some dairy products!
You can have the dairy queen for
breakfast, on its own or with cereal. Try blending it with some fruit or
even mix it with juices/smoothies to make a tasty and nutritious
yoghurt drink; a great way to have your 5 a day.
Click here to learn more about fruit and your 5 a day.
Yoghurt pots and drinks also vary in
size, making it easy to eat on the go. Some even contain essential
bacteria.
The "live" bacteria in yoghurt (as you
often here in adverts) is good for our immune systems and stabilises the
natural bacteria in our bodies. Some women even agree that it helps
prevent thrush.
If you don't eat yogurt, you are really
missing out.
What about the other sources of
calcium?
Milk and Dairy products include:
- Milk
- Yogurt - The king of dairy
- Cream
- Spreads like butter
- Ghee
- And cheese
If you eat these options, watch out for the
saturated fats. Low-fat or reduced fat options are best. If you buy
butter or margarine watch out for lighter spreads that have more than
40g of fat per 100g.
Click here to learn more about saturated fat.
Lactose/Dairy Free options include:
- Hard tap water - but it tastes horrible
- Tofu - A good vegetarian/vegan option
- Tahini - Sesame seed spread
- Pilchards, red salmon and sardines
- Figs and apricots
- Leafy green vegetables
- Beans
- Nuts like almonds and brazil nuts
- And some cereals.
Return from Dairy Queen to Food Groups.
Or click here to head to the next group, Meat
& Beans

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