**Can a Latte, Yoghurt, and Ice Cream Really Provide Enough Calcium? A Dietitian Weighs In**

Tahlia McGrath, the dynamic vice-captain of the Australian women's cricket team, recently shared a glimpse into her daily diet, revealing a surprising inclusion of seemingly indulgent items like lattes, yoghurt, and even ice cream. While these treats might seem far removed from the image of a high-performance athlete's fuel, the question arises: could this combination contribute significantly to her daily calcium needs? We spoke to registered dietitian, Sarah Thompson, to break down McGrath's dietary choices and assess their nutritional value.

"It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking only leafy greens and dairy milk provide calcium," explains Thompson. "But depending on the type and quantity, yoghurt, lattes made with milk, and even ice cream can contribute a reasonable amount."

Thompson clarifies that the calcium content hinges on the specific products McGrath consumes. For instance, a large latte made with full-cream milk will naturally offer more calcium than one made with a smaller serving of skim milk or an alternative milk, unless that alternative is fortified with calcium. Similarly, the type of yoghurt matters. Greek yoghurt, known for its high protein content, may have slightly less calcium than a regular yoghurt, unless it's specifically calcium-enriched.

Ice cream, while often considered a treat, can also contribute to calcium intake, albeit less significantly. Again, the dairy content dictates the calcium level, with richer, creamier ice creams generally containing slightly more. However, Thompson cautions against relying solely on ice cream for calcium due to its high sugar and fat content.

"The key takeaway is balance and variety," Thompson emphasizes. "While McGrath's inclusion of these items might contribute to her calcium intake, it's crucial to consider the rest of her diet. A balanced diet should include a variety of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, leafy green vegetables, and nuts and seeds."

Ultimately, whether McGrath's latte, yoghurt, and ice cream sufficiently meet her calcium needs depends on the specific types and quantities consumed, alongside the rest of her dietary intake. It underscores the importance of reading nutrition labels and making informed choices to ensure adequate calcium consumption for optimal bone health and overall well-being, particularly for athletes like McGrath who require peak physical performance. While these treats can contribute, a well-rounded approach to nutrition remains