The Usual Nutrient Intakes of US Children and Adolescents by Milk Drinking Behavior

Abstract

BackgroundUS children do not consume enough calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and fiber. Milk is a frequently consumed food that provides several nutrients that support growth and development for children and adolescents, thus may be associated with nutrient adequacy. However, previous evidence suggests milk intake has decreased in the past two decades among children and adolescents. An investigation of how milk drinking behavior may be related to dietary quality among US children and adolescents is important to implement future dietary recommendations and interventions.ObjectiveTo estimate and compare the nutrient intake of US children and adolescents by milk drinking behavior, using data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 1999–2012.MethodsChild and adolescent participants (1–19 yrs; n=25,183) with a reliable 24‐hour dietary recall(s) were included in this cross‐sectional study. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24‐hour dietary recall(s) and linked with the USDA Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS) to quantify nutrient intake. Milk drinking behavior was quantified based on responses to the dietary behavior questionnaire. Usual intakes of nutrients were estimated using the National Cancer Institute statistical modeling (NCI method). Meeting requirements of the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) or not was compared by milk drinking behavior using logistic regression.ResultsThe odds of meeting the DRI requirements for calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B‐6, Vitamin B‐12 and folate were significantly higher for children and adolescents who consumed milk on a daily basis compared with those who had varied or less milk drinking behavior. Children consuming milk on a daily basis met the DRI requirements more prevalently compared with those who did not (p<0.05).ConclusionMilk drinking behavior is a useful indicator of nutrient adequacy associated with nutrient gaps among US children and adolescents. Dietary interventions aimed at improving milk consumption may be especially critical for improving nutrient intake among children.Support or Funding InformationFunding: This project was supported with a grant from Elanco.