New Insights on Dairy’s Role in Health for Black Infants, Toddlers, and Young Children
The National Medical Association* (NMA) has released a review presenting the current evidence on health disparities faced by Black children in the US from birth to four years of age, and the role that dairy foods can play in supporting the normal growth and development of this vulnerable population. Over the past two decades, the NMA has examined how dairy consumption impacts chronic disease risks, especially in communities with high rates of lactose intolerance.
While many U.S. infants and toddlers meet key nutrient needs, persistent disparities remain. Black infants and young children, in particular, face higher risks for challenges such as limited breastfeeding support, nutrient gaps, food insecurity, and early obesity. These inequities can have lasting consequences on physical and cognitive development.
A review of dairy food intake for improving health among black infants, toddlers, and young children in the US focuses on the significant benefits of dairy intake for Black children. For infants who do not receive adequate breast milk, dairy-based formulas provide essential nutrients. As children grow, fermented dairy foods like yogurt and cheese make nutrient-rich first foods, and cow’s milk helps meet the high nutritional demands of rapid growth. Emerging evidence suggests dairy consumption may support healthy growth, neurodevelopment, immune function, and the gut microbiome.
* The National Medical Association is the largest and oldest national organization representing African American physicians and their patients in the United States.
Supporting Healthy Habits from the Start
Spark meaningful nutrition conversations with patients and families with our free MyPlate placemat, featuring the USDA MyPlate visual and engaging, age-appropriate activities for children. We offer two versions to fit your needs: one for hands-on education during patient counseling and one designed for waiting room engagement.
New Insights on Dairy’s Role in Health for Black Infants, Toddlers, and Young Children
The National Medical Association* (NMA) has released a review presenting the current evidence on health disparities faced by Black children in the US from birth to four years of age, and the role that dairy foods can play in supporting the normal growth and development of this vulnerable population. Over the past two decades, the NMA has examined how dairy consumption impacts chronic disease risks, especially in communities with high rates of lactose intolerance.
While many U.S. infants and toddlers meet key nutrient needs, persistent disparities remain. Black infants and young children, in particular, face higher risks for challenges such as limited breastfeeding support, nutrient gaps, food insecurity, and early obesity. These inequities can have lasting consequences on physical and cognitive development.
A review of dairy food intake for improving health among black infants, toddlers, and young children in the US focuses on the significant benefits of dairy intake for Black children. For infants who do not receive adequate breast milk, dairy-based formulas provide essential nutrients. As children grow, fermented dairy foods like yogurt and cheese make nutrient-rich first foods, and cow’s milk helps meet the high nutritional demands of rapid growth. Emerging evidence suggests dairy consumption may support healthy growth, neurodevelopment, immune function, and the gut microbiome.
* The National Medical Association is the largest and oldest national organization representing African American physicians and their patients in the United States.
Supporting Healthy Habits from the Start
Spark meaningful nutrition conversations with patients and families with our free MyPlate placemat, featuring the USDA MyPlate visual and engaging, age-appropriate activities for children. We offer two versions to fit your needs: one for hands-on education during patient counseling and one designed for waiting room engagement.