The Dairy Alliance, a nonprofit organization, is participating in National Nutrition Month this March by highlighting how dairy foods can contribute to balanced diets and healthy lifestyles. National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to encourage informed food choices and the development of healthy eating habits. This year's theme, "Discover the Power of Nutrition," focuses on how everyday dietary decisions can fuel healthier lives.
"Our daily choices of food and beverages can fuel our day in meaningful ways," said Farrah Newberry, Chief Executive Officer at The Dairy Alliance. She noted that National Nutrition Month serves as a reminder that informed decisions about nutrition can positively impact both mental and physical well-being. The organization provides free resources, tools, and recipes through its website to help families explore the benefits of dairy and build nourishing habits. These resources are available at https://thedairyalliance.com.
In addition to its online offerings, The Dairy Alliance engages directly with communities through hands-on events. Team members, including Registered Dietitians, attend health fairs, food festivals, athletic competitions, and other gatherings to share practical tips for incorporating dairy into meals and snacks. "There are countless ways to incorporate dairy into everyday meals for families, active teens, and those focused on healthy aging," said Sarah Hester, a Registered Dietitian for The Dairy Alliance. She emphasized that dairy foods deliver a combination of flavor, versatility, and nutrition that supports wellness at every age and stage of life.
Dairy foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt provide essential nutrients including high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamins A, B12, and riboflavin. These nutrients collectively support bone health, muscle function, and overall wellness from childhood through older adulthood. The organization also addresses lactose intolerance, noting that many grocery stores now offer lactose-free versions of dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cream cheese. Many cheeses are naturally low in lactose, and lactose-free real dairy milk provides the same 13 essential nutrients as regular milk, including protein, calcium, and vitamin D.
The Dairy Alliance's efforts are particularly significant as they promote accessible nutrition education and practical dietary solutions. By focusing on the nutritional power of dairy, the organization helps individuals make informed choices that can enhance long-term health outcomes. This initiative underscores the importance of community-based nutrition advocacy in fostering healthier populations through simple, everyday food selections.
