Upping intake of diary products helps a lot in avoiding osteoporosis, a degenerative bone condition that costs Australian health care system $112 million per year.

In a new study of osteoporosis patients, researchers at the University of South Australia concluded that 43,000 cases of the degenerative bone condition could have been prevented by consuming an extra glass of milk a day.

Health experts have recommended at least three serves of dairy foods a day, while the average Australian consumes merely 1.7 serves a day.

One serve is equal to 40g of cheese, 200g of yoghurt or 250ml of milk.

Dairy Australia dietitian Glenys Zucco said they were using the findings during to persuade people to consume more dairy products.

Speaking on the topic, Zucco said, “This year's milkshake' theme encourages Australians to build and maintain strong bones by teaming exercise with calcium-rich foods such as milk and dairy products.”

The findings of the study were released to coincide with National Healthy Bones Week.