A review of 70 publications looked at the impact of cow's milk on children and adolescents. The review focused on how milk affects physical growth, bone health, and body composition. It also looked at how milk might influence cognitive performance.
For children and adolescents without a cow's milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance, regular consumption of cow's milk is considered safe and beneficial. The findings suggest that milk contributes to healthy physical growth and helps maintain good bone health and body composition. There is also some evidence that it may help with cognitive performance, though these specific results were varied across different studies.
Because cow's milk provides these benefits, there is no scientific reason to remove it from the diets of children who can tolerate it. Instead, it can be encouraged as part of a balanced and individualized diet. Parents should consider their child's specific needs and talk to a doctor to determine the best nutritional plan.
