This week I joined my colleagues in the Assembly minority conference in recognizing New York’s dairy producers for the vital role they play in local economies and our personal health. My district is home to many dairy producers, an industry that accounts for half the agricultural output of our local economy. New York’s dairy farmers are an essential asset to our state economy and are an ever-present reminder of our beautiful rural landscape.
Thankfully, the public is becoming more aware of the important health benefits of a diet that includes dairy products.
Parents need to ensure children’s diets are rich in vitamins and minerals, not junk foods and candy. Strong bones and good health can be counted on when dairy products are regularly consumed. Also, studies indicate that people who want to lose weight should have at least three servings of dairy products per day because it helps the body burn more fat.
By enjoying a diet rich in dairy products, everyone can accomplish a number of goals at once. It provides consumers with a leg up at staying healthy and reducing body fat. At the same time, consumers would ensure local dairy producers – the backbone of New York’s agricultural economy – continue to do brisk business and remain part of our landscape for years to come.
I strongly encourage everyone to support their local dairy producers this month and all year long by drinking milk, eating cheese or downing some yogurt in place of high-calorie, fatty snack foods.