CONSUMING dairy as part of a balanced diet has no negative effects on body weight or fatness, and it can be beneficial.

This was the conclusion of recent research conducted by The Dairy Council, in which scientists found that consumption of dairy had no link or association with obesity in children and adolescents.

Studies have highlighted that milk can actually mitigate childhood obesity, compared to sugar-sweetened drinks, and that there are additional beneficial nutrient components of dairy.

In adults, researchers found that dairy consumption aided in the loss of body fat during a calorie restricted diet, and it is believed that the calcium and protein in dairy could stimulate feelings of fullness, and calcium may also reduce the amount of fat that is absorbed in the gut.

Director of nutrition at The Dairy Council, Dr Anne Mullen, said: “There is a misconception that milk and dairy are full of fat and high in calories. Per portion, they contribute a relatively small amount of fat and calories when consumed as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

“Milk and dairy foods are often targeted in public health obesity campaigns as an ‘easy’ way of reducing calories. However, the calories in milk and dairy are far from ‘empty’ – they are nutrient-rich and nutrient-dense, and are integral to healthy eating at all life stages," she said.

“When we look at it in more detail, science tells us an interesting story about dairy and body weight. There is a good rationale for including dairy products in the diet to assist with fat loss whilst also maintaining lean body mass.

“The role of dairy in a healthy diet for life is well-substantiated, and the evidence supporting dairy for a healthy body weight is gathering strength.”