A recent study highlights the importance consuming dairy products throughout childhood. Researchers looked at data from the Framingham Children's Study to understand the effects of usual dairy intake during childhood on bone health during adolescence. Information was gathered from preschoolers at the beginning of the study and the following 12 years. Three indicators of bone health were measured: bone mineral content, bone density and bone area.
- The researchers found that teens who consumed 2 or more serving of dairy a day as children had higher bone density and bone mineral content (average 175 g) than teens who had consumed less.
- The researchers also looked at the combined effects of dairy and other foods. Children who consumed 2 serving of dairy and 4 ounces of meat or other nondairy proteins had higher bone mineral content than children with lower intakes.
Dr. Moore, the study's lead researcher, points out that "dairy is a key source of proteins, calcium, and other micronutrients, including phosphorous and vitamin D." Making dairy a regular part of children's diets can promote healthy bone development during adolescence.
Moore L, et al. The Journal of Pediatrics, DOI: 10.1016, 2008.
