Experts in nutrition are emphasizing the importance of making dairy a regular part of one’s diet.  Federal guidelines continue to recommend three servings per day of dairy.  There are a number of ways of incorporating these products into customary meals.

Monica Nyman is a senior nutrition educator with the St. Louis District Dairy Council.  She says milk consists of no fewer than 13 key nutrients, and cheese and yogurt provide essential nutrients, as well. 

Breakfast meals and baked goods are where dairy products are often added.  The same is true for soups.

For entrees, pasta sauces and casseroles can include milk as an ingredient.

The St. Louis District Dairy Council publishes a “recipe of the month.”  This month’s recipe is baked oatmeal with yogurt.  Nyman says it can be pre-baked with minimal prep time and then cut into “bars” as a quick, nutritious, and satisfying breakfast. 

In a broader sense relating to cooking/baking at home, Nyman cites research showing that it increases the quality of the food served, as well as affordability.

Research also shows that cooking with others is good for building relationships.  For kids, it also helps them build resilience and self-esteem and can even lead to greater academic success.

More information on the St. Louis District Dairy Council is available at www.stldairycouncil.org. 

Monica Nyman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.