1. Milk proteins are responsible for child obesity
FALSE - No scientific research on obesity has concluded that one food
or one food component including milk, milk proteins or any other source of proteins
are the cause of this serious problem.
Removing milk products from a child's diet can adversely affect the growth
and development of bones and teeth. In addition to providing quality protein,
milk is our main source of calcium, phosphorous, riboflavin and vitamin D.
Obesity is a complex condition that has many causes: heredity, environment
(now being called obesity inducing), lack of physical activity, dietary habits,
etc. The best approach to obesity is prevention. Establish healthy eating and
active living habits early in life.
To lose weight and keep it off, the best approach is not drastic diets but
to move toward an active lifestyle and healthy eating habits. There are no miracle
solutions.
If our children are fat, it is not because they have eaten too much of any one
food, such as milk. Instead, it is because:
- They don't move enough;
- Too much of their food choices consists of high-calorie food rich in fat
and sugar;
- The portions they ingest far exceed their needs.
Parents are encouraged to promote healthy eating habits by providing nutritional
foods such as vegetables, fruit, lower-fat dairy products (for children over
4 years old) and whole wheat cereals.
Figures that speak volumes!
Recent findings on the diets of American babies less than 24 months reveal
that they eat, on average, 20% to 30% more calories than they need. Believe
it or not, the vast majority of the additional calories come from sweetened
drinks, French fries or pizza!
2. Dairy products have a place in a weight-loss diet
TRUE - Milk products are part of a balanced diet and should not be eliminated
from weight-loss diets. The nutrient contribution of milk products is similar
despite the %MF (BF). Lower-fat dairy products such as 1% milk, lower-fat cheese
or yogurt can help you lose or maintain your weight, as they contain fewer calories
than their traditional substitutes. Read product labels to determine the fat
level of milk products. If you do make a decision to avoid milk products, be
sure to add other good sources of calcium, vitamin D and protein.
Some recent studies have even shown that high consumption of dairy products
is associated with lower build-up of body fat. Even though other studies are
required to confirm the role of dairy products on loss of body fat, we can say
that dairy products, are an appropriate element of both healthy eating or weight
loss plan.
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