New Delhi, June 17 -- For decades, milk has been associated with strong bones because of its calcium, protein, and, in many regions, vitamin D content. As a result, dairy products have traditionally been recommended as part of a balanced diet to help maintain bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterised by reduced bone strength and increased fracture risk. However, multiple studies have led to public confusion by suggesting that higher dairy consumption does not always translate into lower fracture rates. This has raised an important question: Is milk beneficial or harmful for bone health?

Milk and dairy products are important dietary sources of calcium, a mineral essential for bone formation and maintenance...