The beneficial effects were seen at estimated intake levels similar to those currently recommended by experts but the researchers say other factors may also play a part - children with the highest dairy intakes came from wealthier families and ate better diets overall - but the researchers accounted for this and say there is evidence that high calcium intake is beneficial for blood pressure - prolonged high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke.

The researchers from Bristol University and Queensland Institute of Medical Research in Brisbane, say dairy consumption may also influence heart and circulation health through a hormone called insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) - high circulating levels of IGF-1 in adults are linked with reduced cases of heart failure and heart disease deaths.

Experts say more research is called for in order to assess the benefits of milk in reducing the chances of stroke but they also say a diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in saturated fat and salt is advisable for the overall health of both children and adults and it is important to include dairy as part of a balanced diet from the early years.

The study is published in the journal Heart.