 For
children, milk is the
current key source of vitamin D and calcium and is an excellent
source of high-quality protein. Low fat and skim milk, including
low fat yogurt drinks, can contribute to a healthy diet, but are
not essential. Fortified soymilk is a good alternative for individuals
who prefer not to consume cow’s milk, although consumers should
be aware that soymilk cannot be legally fortified with vitamin D
and provides about 75% of the calcium available from milk. Yogurt
drinks have lower lactose content than milk and may be preferred
by individuals with reduced lactose tolerance. In general, low fat
dairy beverages and fortified soymilk provide an important source
of protein, calcium, and other essential micronutrients.
The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Committee performed
a detailed review of this topic and concluded that there was not
sufficient evidence that milk consumption reduced, or prevented,
weight gain.
A second issue relates to bone health. The Dietary Guidelines
Committee also evaluated 7 random trials and 32 observational
studies exploring the relationship between milk intake and bone
health. There are important benefits of higher calcium intake
on bone mineral density but these are not maintained if the high
intake is reduced.
Milk is
an important source of calcium and is the key source for vitamin
D due to fortification, particularly for ages 6–18 years,
where calcium requirements are higher. Milk products are also
important contributors to the intake of essential nutrients in
the diet of children and adolescents.
The
Panel recommends 0-16 ounces a day of Low Fat and Skim Milk and
Soy Beverages be consumed [0-16 fl. oz./day ]
USDA's MyPyramid guidelines for food intake recommend 3 servings per day of low-fat or fat free milk, yogurt,
cheese or other foods made from milk that retain their calcium content. The one or two servings of low-fat or fat
free milk recommended by the proposed Healthy Beverage Guidelines also count as one or two servings of milk under
the MyPyramid guidelines.
See table below
for calorie content
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