Dairy Council

During adolescence (from eleven years of age onwards) requirements for many nutrients, including calcium, are increased

Adolescence is a particularly important period for the development of lifelong bone health

The reason for the increased calcium needs during this time is that adolescents will experience rapid growth as bones begin to grow in length and strengthen. It is estimated that almost 90% of a person’s bone strength will have been achieved by the age of 18, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet, including calcium–rich foods in the lead up to adulthood

Unfortunately, many teenagers, particularly girls, are short of calcium. The latest National Diet and Nutrition Survey* reported that 22% of 11– to 18–year–olds are not getting the calcium they need. Some teenage boys (12%) are also missing out

Dairy products can be an important means of providing this age group with nutrients such as calcium which they need to support development and growth

They will also contribute towards meeting other increased nutrient requirements. Cheese, for example, provides protein which is also needed for normal bone growth and development, and milk can help towards meeting increased needs for vitamins such as vitamin B2 and vitamin B12

A diet which provides the nutrients required for good bone health during adolescence can be one factor for determining bone health later in life.