Another reason to give your kids Milk

by Anne Myers-Wright RD/APD

Posted on May 4, 10:17 AM in and . Comments [1].

Did you know that giving your children milk may help them with their physical performance and protect them from falls in later years? We all know that milk is a great source of protein and calcium, essential for bone growth and development, but there is also some evidence that mobility may be improved in the later years as a result of drinking more milk.

A recent study has looked at the impact of milk drinking on physical performance in later life. 405 children took part in the 65 year prospective study which found that high milk intakes in childhood were associated with faster walking times and lower odds of poor balance in older age (63-86).

In fact, overall, the improvements were 5% faster walking time and 25% lower odds of poor balance. This is a great benefit and adds to quality of life in older age.

Another reason to make sure the kids get enough.

Reference:

Childhood milk consumption is associated with better physical performance in old age. Birnie K, Ben-Shlomo Y, Gunnell D, Ebrahim S, Bayer A, Gallacher J, Holly JM, Martin RM. Age and Ageing. 2012 Apr 26

Tags: Calcium, Dairy, Milk

About the author

Anne Myers-Wright

Anne Myers-Wright RD/APD

Anne is a Health Professions Council (HPC) registered dietitian (RD), an Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD- Australia), a fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), a member of the British Dietetic Association, The Nutrition Society and of The Dietetics Association of Australia.

Comment

  1. I must say people need such informative blogs. Nice blog Anne.

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