The common phrase 'milk does a body good,' may contain more truth than many people realize.
Research indicates that a diet rich in calcium aids in weight loss.
Becky Low, director of nutrition education for the Dairy Council of Utah, said calcium intake is a trigger for many functions in the human body.
'Research from the past several years is showing calcium has an impact on blood pressure, weight loss, breast cancer, ovarian cancer and colon cancer - calcium is really in researchers' minds right now,' Low said.
And it is not only dairy companies that are coming up with this research.
Michael Stark, an assistant professor of zoology, said calcium is essential for muscles to perform.
If muscles are functioning more effectively, people are more likely to shed unwanted pounds, he said.
For calcium buffs that are lactose-intolerant or do not like milk products, the American Dietetic Association recommends food as the primary source of calcium.
Dairy is not the sole source of calcium. Many fruits, green leafy vegetables, legumes or soy products are also rich in calcium.
However, the ADA also said supplements can also be effective.
Diana Rhodes, a BYU graduate in music from Highland, Utah County, said she notices a significant difference in the way she feels when her diet is lacking in calcium.
Since she is lactose-intolerant, Rhodes said she often opts for foods high in calcium and takes calcium supplements.
'I don't know if it is scientifically proven; I just know I feel better when I take calcium,' Rhodes said.
Andrea Riding, 23, a senior in therapeutic recreation, from Troutdale, Ore., said she notices an increase in energy when she takes supplements.
'I feel more like myself. Before I took the supplements I felt out of energy and like I was dragging,' she said.
Associate professor of zoology Allan Judd said he believe calcium should come from dairy products.
'From the research it seems that dairy is a better source of calcium and more effective than supplements,' he said.
However, research from Purdue University indicates that weight loss has been greater in those that received calcium from low-fat dairy products rather than supplements or non-dairy sources.
Judd suggested not exceeding the recommended amount given by the American Dietetic Association, because research indicates large amounts of calcium can be harmful, increasing risks for prostate cancer.