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Milk, a force of nature: calcium goodness

Did you know that milk is a natural source of many important nutrients that are vital for maintaining good health, whatever your age? This makes milk a force of nature!

Calcium Goodness
Milk is an important source of the mineral calcium, and calcium is needed for the growth and development of bone in children and the maintenance of our bones and teeth. In fact, approximately 99% of the body's calcium is found in our bones and teeth.

Part of a balanced diet
Apart from its role in bone and dental health, calcium also plays a role in blood coagulation, energy metabolism, muscle function and normal function of enzymes involved in digestion. As heat has little impact on the calcium content of food, cooked meals containing milk retain their calcium goodness and can help you meet your recommended daily intake from the 'milk, yogurt and cheese' food group as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Check out our tasty, milk-based recipes at www.milkaforceofnature.ie.

Get the power of milk on your side
The Department of Health's Food Pyramid recommends three servings from the 'milk, yogurt and cheese' food group each day. Between the ages of 9-18 years, five servings daily are recommended due to the importance of calcium during this life stage. Examples of one serving include: 200ml of milk, 125ml of yogurt or 25g of hard cheese. The wide range of low-fat/reduced-fat varieties from this food group remain an important source of calcium, providing plenty of variety and choice.

How nutrients work for you

Protein
 - Bone Health
 - Muscle Maintenance

Calcium
 - Bone and Dental Health

Iodine
 - Skin Health
 - Energy Metabolism

Vitamin B2
 - Reduction of Tiredness & Fatigue
 - Skin Health

Vitamin B12
 - Immune System Function
 - Energy Metabolism