This month we talk with Trina Robertson, MS, RD Project Manager at Dairy Council of California about the ins and outs of dairy in our diets. She provides lots of great insight into the topic. You can follower her on Twitter @TrinaR_RD 

Discuss the USDA dietary guidelines (specifically dairy) including the nutrients found in dairy. 

The USDA Dietary Guidelines were released January 2011 and they recommend consuming more low-fat and fat-free milk or milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These food groups contribute substantially towards the “under consumed nutrients” in American’s diets: calcium, potassium, vitamin D and fiber. Milk products are the largest food contributor to the first three of these four nutrients. A serving is equivalent to 1 cup of milk or yogurt and 1-1/2 ounces of cheese. All milks, regardless of fat level or added flavorings, contain about the same amount of calcium. The recommendations, which are based on promoting bone health, can be reached by consuming three servings of milk & milk products each day for those who are 9 years and older. Children age 4-8 should consume 2-1/2 cups of milk & milk products each day and 2-3 year olds need 2 cups of milk products daily.