Is there a link between dairy and cardiovascular disease?

The perceived negative association of dairy for heart health is based on its saturated fat content. However, dairy products span a wide and varied range of fat contents, from skimmed milk to butter. Additionally, in Ireland, dairy foods (milk, yogurt, cheese, cream and butter) account for only 13 % of our total fat intake and there are many low-fat, nutritious options available.

Interestingly, new scientific research is suggesting that not all saturated fats have the same effect, with health outcomes dependent on the food source. Dairy fats are usually consumed with a matrix of other nutrients in foods such as milk, yogurt and cheese and currently research is exploring the benefits of these nutrient combinations for cardiovascular health.