One of the most important contributions the dairy group makes to our health is calcium. The mineral calcium plays an important role in strong bones, muscle contraction, blood clotting, and conduction of nerve impulses. Did you know that when you don’t have enough calcium in your blood for your muscles and nerves to function, your body simply takes it from your bones? What happens next? If you guessed weakened bones and the increased risk of osteoporosis, you’re right.

The average adult from age 19–50 needs 1,000 mg of calcium per day. That’s approximately three servings from the dairy group. In addition to the mineral calcium, most foods in the dairy group also provide vitamins A, D, and B12, potassium, riboflavin, phosphorus, and niacin. What a deal! So choose foods from the dairy group, and give yourself an “A”!