Full fat versus low fat dairy

[draught]

Hi
My question is about low fat milk versus "normal" milk.
My two children, aged 3 1/2 and 2 years both drink normal milk - a cup (about 200mls) in the morning after waking, some on their cereal, and another cup (again between 150 and 200 mls) at night before bed. My younger one also has a half cup (100mls) before her midday nap. They both eat a pot of yoghurt (full fat) most days and a slice or two of "full strength" cheese each day. Obviously I am happy with their calcium intake - my question is whether I should now be switching to the low fat versions of these foods.

We try to keep them active, and to eat healthy food generally, but have noticed that DD1 is starting to get a bit pudgy around the middle and I was wondering whether the fat in the dairy she eats could be a contributer and whether it is worth the switch. I suppose I am looking for reassurance that low fat milk and cheese still has all the nutrients they need - and that cutting the fat will make a difference.

[the pero clinic]

Dear Draught,

Good question. The National Health and Medical Research Council has made the following recommendations about the use of full vs low fat products in children:


0-2 years : “Skim” (less than 0.5% fat) and “Reduced” (1.5 – 2.5% fat) fat milk products should not be used.
2-5 years: No more than 10% of the diet should be saturated fats. Therefore, “reduced” fat milk, but not “skim” milk, should be given. It is ok if some food products such as ice cream or custard are based on “skim” milk.
5-14 years: The use of “skim” dairy products is appropriate – children over the age of 5 should have “reduced” or “skim” milk products.
Obesity is becoming a serious issue for Australian children, and the intake of fat in children’s diets needs to be monitored.

So, in summary, it is recommended that your children over the age of 2 have “reduced” fat dairy products.

If there are ever any concerns about a child’s poor or excessive weight gain, different recommendations may apply, and it is best to discuss this with a paediatric dietitian.

the pero clinic