Scientists have assessed the benefits of milk for children

The consumption of dairy products is critically important for the development of children, as they provide the body with calcium, iodine and protein. This was reported by Medical Xpress magazine on June 10.

Experts note that it is necessary to exclude dairy products from the diet only if there is a confirmed allergy to cow's milk protein or lactose intolerance. For most children, a dairy diet is the foundation of bone and cardiovascular health.

Experts also refuted the widespread belief that milk provokes the development of asthma or increases the production of mucus. Studies have not confirmed a link between dairy consumption and worsening asthma symptoms. The feeling of "plaque" in the throat after drinking is a temporary effect and is not associated with inflammatory processes.

On the issue of weight control, scientists sided with whole milk. Protein and calcium contribute to a long-term feeling of fullness, which reduces the risk of developing obesity. At the same time, recent data call into question the need to switch to low-fat foods: the fats contained in milk affect the heart differently than fats from processed meat or baked goods, and do not harm blood vessels.

According to the dietary recommendations of Australian experts, children aged one to eight years need from 1 to 1.5 servings of dairy products per day. One serving is equivalent to 250 ml of milk, 40 g of hard cheese or 200 g of yogurt. For teenagers, the norm increases to 3.5 servings.

Nutritionists recommend paying special attention to the diet of young children. Excess milk during the transition to solid foods can reduce the appetite for iron-rich foods, leading to the risk of anemia.

When choosing plant-based alternatives, parents should remember that soy, almond, or oat drinks are not a complete substitute for cow's milk in terms of protein and iodine content. Soy milk, enriched with calcium, is considered the closest in composition. To increase the consumption of dairy products, doctors recommend replacing the usual snacks with them: for example, give preference to yoghurts instead of cookies, choosing options without added sugar.

Sofia Perikova, nutritionist at the Docmed clinic network, spoke about the dangers and benefits of milk on June 1. According to her, dairy products are the main source of easily digestible calcium, rich in phosphorus, high-quality protein, as well as vitamins A, D and group B. The specialist also stressed that drinking milk helps prevent osteoporosis. At the same time, according to Perikova, it is not recommended to drink fresh cow's milk without pretreatment: this can lead to intestinal infections, food poisoning and other systemic diseases.