New Legislation on Whole Milk in Schools

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump enacted the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, allowing American children to consume whole milk in schools for the first time in nearly 15 years. Trump emphasized the health benefits of whole milk for children. Similarly, in India, providing milk to children has been a longstanding tradition aimed at promoting better growth. Ayurveda also recognizes milk as a vital source of nutrition. However, many parents today are cautious about giving milk due to the variety of options available, including full-fat, low-fat, and skim milk. To shed light on this topic, we consulted Dr. Deepak Sharma, Senior Director and Head of the Pediatrics and Neonatology Department at Yatharth Super Specialty Hospital in Faridabad.

Choosing the Right Milk for Children

Which type of milk is best for children?
Dr. Sharma explained that the ideal milk choice for a child depends on their age, nutritional requirements, activity level, and overall health. Full-fat milk, which contains about 3-4% fat, is richer in calories and provides higher levels of Vitamin A, Vitamin D, calcium, and beneficial fats. These fats are crucial for brain development, hormone production, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Understanding Caloric Needs

Risk of calorie deficiency
According to the doctor, low-fat milk typically has a fat content of 1-2% and fewer calories than full-fat milk. Skimmed or fat-free milk has almost all the fat removed, leading to a significant calorie reduction. However, adequate calorie intake is essential for children's growth, as deficiencies can delay developmental milestones like walking or talking.

Adjusting Milk Types with Age

Change children's milk according to their age.
For children aged 1-5 years, full-fat milk is recommended due to their rapid growth, which necessitates sufficient dietary fat for brain development and energy. For children over 5, full-fat milk remains a healthy choice, but if they are active and maintain a balanced diet, low-fat milk can also be suitable. Low-fat milk provides protein, calcium, and vitamins but has fewer total fat calories, making it a good option for children who are overweight or have a family history of obesity, high cholesterol, or heart disease.

Skimmed Milk Considerations

Skimmed milk is not for young children.
Medical professionals generally advise against giving skimmed or fat-free milk to very young children unless specifically recommended. Older teenagers with certain health conditions may be advised to consume skimmed or fat-free milk.

Recommended Milk Intake

How much milk should children drink?
Experts stress that both the type and quantity of milk are important. Excessive milk consumption can reduce a child's appetite for a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Most children should aim for 1 to 2 cups (200–400 ml) of milk daily, ideally as part of a meal rather than as a substitute.

Key Takeaways

Keep this in mind
There is no universal solution when it comes to children's milk consumption. Full-fat milk is generally the best choice for younger children, while older children with a balanced diet may benefit from low-fat options. Non-fat or skimmed milk should only be consumed under medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the best milk choice for your child's individual needs.

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