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Nutrition News Alerts

Dairy Intake May Benefit Adolescent Hearts

A recent study showed that adolescents who consume more dairy foods and grains have lower blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adults. 

This study examined the relationship between homocysteine levels and intake of foods rich in several vitamins (folate, B6 and B12).  Adequate intakes of these nutrients are required to prevent abnormal levels of homocysteine from building up in the blood.  The researchers used food frequency questionnaires to assess the diets of 2,695 adolescents (15 to 20 years old) enrolled in the Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health.  After adjustment for demographic and lifestyle factors and intakes of other food groups, higher intakes of dairy foods and grains were associated with significantly lower homocysteine levels.

This relationship seems to be at least partially explained by the folate and B vitamin content of these foods.  The researchers conclude that both whole grains and dairy foods are rich in nutrients that may help lower homocysteine levels and note that their findings are consistent with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommends eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods such as lowfat or fat-free dairy foods, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.

Lutsey P, et al. Serum homocysteine is related to food intake in adolescents: the Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2006; 83: 1380-1386.

Editor’s Note: Three cups of milk provide nearly 40 percent of the daily value for vitamin B12.

Scientific synopsis provided by Jennifer Meyer, RD, LMNT, Dairy Council of Nebraska, Inc.