Myths and Facts About Dairy Foods and Calcium Supplementation

Abstract

From the historical perspective, milk and dairy product consumption has played an important role in the development of human society. However, in the recent years, some doubts have been raised regarding the benefits of dairy food consumption and calcium supplements on bone health. Additionally, potential adverse effects have been attributed to their use, such as increased cardiovascular risk, increased incidence of cancer, digestive troubles, nephrolithiasis and increased mortality rate. Although the available evidence may be controversial, in most cases it cate- gorically refutes these statements.

In this review of the literature, we try to address concerns regarding benefit and risks of consumption of dairy products, calcium and vitamin D supplements.