 Milk Consumption does not improve bone strength in children Humayun J. Chaudhry, Thomas Foley, Dr. Martin Greenfield, Michael Perlman- Source: newsday Date: 12/05/07
Advice on milk is dated
The Children's National Medical Center is offering dated advice by
encouraging kids to drink milk for strong bones ["A bone to pick with
the nation's kids," News, Nov. 28].
According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, "A 2005
review
published in Pediatrics showed that milk consumption does not
improve bone integrity in children. The Harvard Nurses' Health Study,
which followed more than 72,000 women for 18 years, showed no
protective effect of increased milk consumption on fracture risk." It
is also important to note that cow's milk may contribute to excessive
calorie intake while providing saturated fat and cholesterol to
children who already likely are consuming too much.
Studies have shown that a diet rich in legumes, whole grains, and
vegetables and fruit is one of the best ways to promote strong bones
and add to overall health. We would do well to focus our efforts on
encouraging a reduction in children's intake of animal protein (which
tends to leach calcium from the bones), carbonated soft drinks and
salt, while assuring sufficient physical activity, and some sun
exposure for vitamin D.
Bob DiBenedetto
Editor's note: The writer is president and director of Healthy Planet.
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