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Dairy Research, Resources & Summer Events

July 14, 2026 4 Minute Read

Nutrition Connections_HealthProfessionals

In this month's Nutrition Connections:

  • Dairy's role in supporting Hispanic American health outcomes
  • Strategies to address lactose intolerance
  • Professional education opportunities

Research Spotlight

A narrative review published in the Journal of the National Hispanic Medical Association looks at the role of dairy foods in supporting health across the lifespan for Hispanic American populations. Hispanic households are disproportionately affected by food insecurity and diet-related chronic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Dairy foods, including milk, yogurt and cheese, provide key nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iodine, magnesium and potassium, as well as bioactive components that support cost-effective, nutritionally adequate eating patterns for lifelong health. Read the review.


Dairy FAQs: Can people who are lactose intolerant consume dairy?

Yes, there are plenty of ways to enjoy dairy foods, even with lactose intolerance. Avoiding dairy can put people at an increased risk of missing out on important nutrients and developing health issues. Some simple strategies to help minimize the symptoms based on the level of intolerance include:

  • Choosing lactose-free dairy foods
  • Eating fermented dairy products like yogurt, kefir and hard cheeses
  • Increasing intake of dairy products over time to build tolerance
  • Consuming lactose-containing dairy foods in small doses

Find more FAQs on Dairy Council of CA's Milk & Dairy Nutrition hub and discover how dairy supports several functional health benefits.


Professional Education Opportunities

Beyond Calcium: Unlocking the Power of the Dairy Matrix in Supporting Lifelong Health

  • Date/Time: Available on demand
  • Speakers: Featuring Dairy Council of California nutrition experts, Trina Robertson, MS, RDN, and Ashley Rosales, MS, RDN

This recorded California WIC Association webinar explores the science of the dairy matrix and its impact on lifelong health.  Use passcode 7QqX!oc5 to watch the webinar.

The Magic of Human Milk: Understanding Baby Behavior and Supporting Families With Their Infant Feeding Decisions

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 10-11:30 a.m. PT
  • Speakers: Jennifer Smilowitz, Ph.D. and Heather Wasser, Ph.D.

This webinar explores the benefits of human milk and why newborn feeding patterns may not always align with parents' breastfeeding goals. Understanding typical infant cues can help staff provide compassionate, evidence-based support. Participants will gain practical strategies to help families feed with confidence, supporting positive breastfeeding outcomes and healthy infant growth. Fee: $25 (Free for California Local WIC Agency Staff)

CEUs: The California WIC Association will be applying for CPEUs through CDR and CERPs through IBCLE. Register here.


2026 Food and Nutrition Trends for Education and Health Professionals Highlights

If you missed the full food and nutrition trends webinar, check out the top insights in five minutes. Access the trends insights video.


Join Us for Summer Events!

Dairy Council of California Student Cooking Competition 

  • Location: California State Fair, Cooking Theatre, California's Kitchen (Building B) 
  • Date/Time: Wednesday, July 22, 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior Annual Conference

  • Poster Session
  • Location: Washington D.C.
  • Date: July 29–31, 2026

If you're attending, visit the poster sessions to learn about our work on culturally responsive nutrition education. We'd love to connect!


Let's Work Together BessieOConnor_ProdCatCard

Questions or opportunities for collaboration? Please contact Bessie O’Connor, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, at boconnor@dairycouncilofca.org.

Share & Subscribe

Do you know someone who would benefit from evidence-based nutrition insights and practical resources? Feel free to share this newsletter with colleagues, partners and students in your network. Subscribe here.