Mixed
Higher dairy product consumption is associated with a modest reduction in BMI and lower risk of obesity, particularly in overweight or obese individuals, whereas cheese consumption may be positively associated with obesity prevalence.
To support weight management, prioritize milk and yogurt over cheese. The evidence suggests these lower-fat dairy options are associated with lower BMI and reduced obesity risk, especially if you are already overweight. Aim for higher calcium intake from these sources (around 800-1200 mg/d) as part of a balanced diet, but recognize the effect is modest and not a substitute for overall energy balance.
The majority of data available from both epidemiological and intervention studies provide evidence of a negative but modest association between milk and dairy product consumption and BMI and other measures of adiposity... In contrast, milk and yoghurt were negatively related to adiposity in Beydoun’s analysis... cheese was positively associated with the prevalence of obesity and central obesity.
Why this rating
The review synthesizes numerous prospective cohort studies and intervention trials, noting methodological strengths but also inconsistencies and potential confounding.
Source
Associations between dairy consumption and body weight: a review of the evidence and underlying mechanisms
Anestis Dougkas et al. · Nutrition Research Reviews · 2011
DOI 10.1017/s095442241000034x
Related findings · Mixed
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