Dairying has been an agricultural practice since people first started domesticating animals. Milk and dairy products are a vital part of the diet for many people. They contain most of the basic elements necessary for children to grow and are an important part of the human diet. Dairy products constitute one of the five main food groups that together comprise a healthy and balanced diet. Significant amounts of protein are found in dairy products along with most of the micronutrients we need. These include calcium, the B-group of vitamins, vitamin A, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Milk and dairy foods can also help to improve bone and dental health and may have a role to play in protecting the body against hypertension.