Science Summary: Dairy and Sarcopenia and Osteoporosis

As the population of older adults in the U.S. continues to grow, the nutrition challenges these adults face will become even more serious public health concerns.

Dairy foods like milk, yogurt and cheese are important sources of several shortfall nutrients for older adults, including protein, calcium, potassium, vitamin D and vitamin B12.

Eating dairy foods may reduce the risk of age-related conditions such as sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and strength) and frailty. Consuming dairy foods may also help older adults maintain healthy bones by reducing the risk of bone mineral density loss and lowering the risk of osteoporosis-related falls and fractures.

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommends that adults consume three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods daily as part of the Healthy U.S.-Style Dietary Pattern.

You can download our full report for more information to learn more about sarcopenia and osteoporosis.