Dairy

There are many ways of including dairy products in a healthy diet. Dairy products are a good source of protein and calcium which is particularly important for children and young adults. Some ideas for healthy living with dairy foods are given below. Some of these are fairly obvious but it might help start the milk ideas flowing! The class could brainstorm many other ideas for sure.

• We all know the saying that "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" but many people, including teenagers, skimp on breakfast or skip it all together. Breakfast is an obvious time to use milk – on cereals or in porridge – but also try energy smoothies (with milk, bananas and honey), or cheese with fresh bread (continental style!)
• Yogurt as a snack – natural or fruit. Also try blending your own natural yogurt with fresh fruit. Sprinkle the top with muesli or chop bananas into it. A really healthy, satisfying filler! You can also buy ready-made yogurt mixer snacks.
• Try making your own rice pudding – its surprisingly easy! The recipe is sometimes found on the rice packet. Add cinnamon for a cosy winter dessert. Or of course you can always buy it ready made. Rice pudding has a high milk content.
• Warming autumn beverages like hot chocolate or chai latte. (Indian-inspired spiced tea made with lots of hot milk). Can be made with skimmed milk if preferred. You can buy the powders to make it yourself at home, and they often taste just like the café product!