A letter to the editor by Hanna Kelley, RDN, LD
February is American Heart Month, a reminder that small, everyday choices can make a meaningful difference in protecting heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. One way to improve heart health is by incorporating dairy foods into your diet. Dairy products have a reputation for building strong bones, and while that’s certainly true, people are often surprised to learn dairy’s role goes far beyond bone health.
As part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, milk, cheese, and yogurt are nutrient-rich foods that can help support heart health, reduce the risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes and help maintain a healthy weight. Research continues to reinforce dairy’s positive role in cardiovascular health. Findings from the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study show that people who consume about 14 servings of dairy per week, at all fat levels, have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke. These results highlight that familiar, delicious foods can play an important role in long-term heart health. Milk, cheese, and yogurt provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like calcium and potassium that help keep the heart and body strong.
Here in Indiana, we’re fortunate to have local dairy farmers producing these nutritious foods every single day. Find them at your favorite grocery, or if you’re interested in an adventure, resources like the Indiana Cheese Guide make it easy for Hoosiers to find and support Indiana agriculture while building a heart-healthy diet. Nearby options such as Kuehnert Dairy in Fort Wayne and J2K Capraio in South Bend are worth the short drive.
This American Heart Month, I encourage people of all ages to take care of their heart health by enjoying more milk, cheese and yogurt, and supporting the Indiana dairy farmers who help nourish our communities.