June is National Dairy Month! Dairy products are good sources of vitamin D and calcium – nutrients vital to good health. How much do you need? 3-A-Day, that’s 3 servings of milk, cheese or yogurt! Vitamin D has several essential bodily functions. Not only does it maintain blood calcium and phosphorus levels, but it also aids in the absorption of calcium to form and maintain strong bones, works with calcium to increase bone density, and decreases fractures. Recent studies show that vitamin D may also protect against osteoporosis, hypertension, cancer, and several autoimmune diseases!

A serving of Dairy includes the following:

• 1 cup of fat-free or low-fat milk
• 1 -1/2 ounces of hard cheese (Parmesan, mozzarella, Swiss)
• 1/3 cup of shredded cheese
• 2 ounces American cheese
• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of frozen yogurt

Here’s one sweet recipe that doesn’t skimp on dairy or flavor.