In the second article of this series, we will transition to the next life stage: childhood or children and adolescents (5 to 17 years). According to the National Medical Association’s April 2024 published article, “The role of dairy food intake for improving health among black Americans across the life continuum: A summary of the evidence.”, this life stage experiences higher rates of undernutrition and overnutrition, food insecurity, and an increased intake of sugar sweetened beverages and dietary imbalances.

What Nutrients are Important During Childhood?

During the childhood life stage, there is a rapid period of growth that is occurring. This growth sets the foundation for musculoskeletal, metabolic, and immune health. To ensure optimal growth, during this time, the following nutrients are needed in adequate amounts:

Vitamin D
Calcium
Protein

How Can Dairy Help?

Replacing consumption of sugary beverages with milk can help eliminate potential dietary imbalances. Real dairy milk provides 13 essential nutrients including vitamin D, calcium, and protein. These nutrients are important for overall growth and dietary quality, hydration, satiety, cognitive function, oral and bone health, stature, and gut health. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends consuming 2.5-3 servings of dairy products daily for this age group. More specifically, 2.5 servings for 5-8-year olds and 3 servings for 9-17-year olds.

Dairy Consumption Concerns

Overweight and obesity in children and adolescents has a higher prevalence in Black youth, increasing the risk of future chronic diseases. The underconsumption that happens with older youths contributes to a decreased intake of important nutrients that include vitamin D and calcium. By meeting the recommendations for dairy intake, there is an opportunity to decrease multiple health disparities and improve health equity for those at risk.

Visit our nutrition page to learn more about dairy’s important role in child nutrition.

Lynette Armstrong

Some of the best lessons about dairy happen when agriculture comes directly into the classroom. Local partners from 4-H, FFA, Farm Bureau, and other agricultural organizations help students connect what they eat and drink every day to the farms and people behind it. Dairy Farmers and local ag educators were asked to share how they bring dairy to life for students, the farm facts kids love most, and their advice for helping the next generation learn more about dairy.