Today, 65 percent of Americans are obese or overweight. Excess body weight can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and other diseases. That’s why it’s important for people of all ages to maintain a healthy weight.

Three every day

A growing body of research shows that enjoying 3 servings of low fat or fat–free milk, cheese or yogurt each day as part of a nutrient-rich, balanced diet may help maintain a healthy weight. In fact, studies also show that people who consume more calcium and dairy foods weigh less and/or have less body fat than those who consume little or no dairy.

Snack smart

Try these dairy snack ideas to help reach 3 servings of dairy foods every day, keep hunger in check between meals and stay energized:

• Mix low fat strawberry milk with fresh strawberry slices and freeze in a popsicle container.
• Freeze squeezable yogurt for a quick and creamy popsicle.
• Pack string cheese into your cooler for a post-workout energizer.
• Low fat flavored milks are perfect anywhere you go- just take, shake and sip!
• Layer granola and fresh fruit with your favorite low fat yogurt.
• Mix fat-free yogurt with a dollop of honey for a sweet fruit dip.
• Wrap Colby Jack cheese around spears of asparagus.