Calcium intake was not associated with weight gain in men over a 12-year period, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition1.

This research is consistent with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans which recommend 3 servings of low-fat dairy foods each day and recognise that intake of dairy foods does not contribute to extra weight gain.

In addition to research that demonstrates dairy foods do not contribute to extra weight gain, dozens of studies provide compelling evidence that consuming 3 servings a day of milk, cheese and yogurt as part of a reduced-calorie weight loss plan may help adults achieve better results than just cutting calories with little or no dairy, according to Greg Miller, PhD, executive vice president, National Dairy Council.

The current body of evidence includes randomized clinical trials (considered the "gold standard" of science), observational, animal and cellular studies conducted by leading research institutions throughout the country. This intriguing connection also is being studied worldwide - with positive results reported in Denmark, Greece, Italy and other countries.

Source: Hindustan Times