Could milk promote better behaviour and skin health in children?
Milk is already a nutrient-rich liquid food, but what if we could super charge them even more?
Recent studies involving our research arm, Fonterra Research Development Centre (FRDC) have explored the emerging role of Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM), a power ingredient in supporting brain development during pregnancy and infancy, and probiotics in supporting maternal and children’s immunity.
One study found that compared to children who were given a standard milk formula, those who consumed milk fortified with MFGM showed better cognitive development in terms of higher cognitive, general adaptive and social developmental scores.
Senior Research Scientist at FRDC, Dr Paul McJarrow says, “Milk Fat Globule Membrane contains gangliosides and phospholipids. Both gangliosides and phospholipids are major brain and are abundant in cell membranes. Whereas gangliosides play important roles in cell signalling and nerve communication, phospholipids help with the maintenance and speed of neuronal messaging.”
“Consumption of milk fortified with probiotics can lead to reduced numbers of respiratory and gut infections, reduce fever-related illnesses, and lower the usage of antibiotics. Probiotics can also help improve skin health by reducing the risk of eczema among children"
A series of studies have also looked at the benefits of probiotics. Dr James Dekker, another Senior Research Scientist at FRDC, indicates that probiotics can offer a range of health benefits, and may even help improve children’s skin health. He says, “Consumption of milk fortified with probiotics can lead to reduced numbers of respiratory and gut infections, reduce fever-related illnesses, and lower the usage of antibiotics. Probiotics can also help improve skin health by reducing the risk of eczema among children”.
Based on the findings from these FRDC supported studies, shared via an online research sharing session with Southeast Asia healthcare professionals, both our scientists suggest drinking milk fortified with MFGM and probiotics can benefit both children and adults.
Understanding one’s body needs at all life stages is important to ensure that we consume the right nutrients. Fortified milk with specialist ingredients like these can help us get these nutrients which may otherwise be lacking in our diets.
Time to consider a fortified milk!