|
|
 |
|
Sign
up for the NDC Update for the latest dairy nutrition news, fast facts,
free tools for patients, expert nutrition advice and information on updated
dairy nutrition resources.
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
News Alert Archives
Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International Position on Cow's Milk and Type 1 Diabetes
Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International
The Diabetes Research Foundation
Summary:
Recent media reports have suggested a possible link between the development of Type 1, "juvenile" diabetes and the consumption of cow's milk in childhood. However, a careful review of the scientific data that has accumulated over many years indicates that there is no compelling evidence at this time that supports the claim that drinking or consuming cow's milk increases the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes in children or adults. Thus, parents should follow the dietary recommendations of their doctor, pediatrician, or nutritionist regarding consumption of cow's milk products.
Background:
Type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune destruction of the insulin producing beta cells of the pancreas. Strong scientific data suggest the autoimmune attack results when an individual having a genetic predisposition to the disease encounters an environmental trigger. Unfortunately, the exact genetic background which makes an individual susceptible to Type 1 diabetes is unknown. Similarly, the possible environmental elements which may trigger the autoimmune attack are unknown.
In response to the claims that childhood exposure to cow's milk causes juvenile illnesses, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a leading organization on children's health, encourages pediatricians to recommend milk, yogurt and other calcium-rich foods for children over one year of age. The AAP recommends the use of breast milk or iron-enhanced infant formula for children under one year of age. The AAP, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the American Dietetic Association, the National Osteoporosis Foundation and dozens of other reputable health and nutrition groups recognize that cow's milk can play a critical role in providing calcium, protein and other essential nutrients to American children.
The JDF supports research aimed at identifying the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of Type 1 diabetes. The JDF position is that there is no compelling scientific evidence at this time that supports the claim that drinking cow's milk increases the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes in children or adults.¹ Well-controlled scientific investigations, utilizing the latest of technologies, are currently ongoing to further explore these claims. These studies are aimed at determining the genetic and environmental factors that lead to the development of Type 1 diabetes.
You can rely on the National Dairy Council for credible,
up-to-date news on dairy nutrition research, public policies on nutritional
issues and special dairy nutrition campaigns. Please browse the
News Alert archives or use the search located above the left hand
navigation for more information. If you can't find what you are looking for or
have additional questions, please contact our Nutrition & Health News
Bureau via phone at 312-240-2880 or via e-mail at
ndc@dairyinformation.com.
|