What is a common consequence of excessive milk intake in children?

What is a common consequence of excessive milk intake in children?

• A. Increased risk of vitamin D toxicity
• B. Decreased risk of obesity
• C. Iron deficiency anemia due to displacement of iron-rich foods
• D. Magnesium deficiency

Answer: (C)

A common consequence of excessive milk intake in children is iron deficiency anemia. Milk provides little iron and can crowd out iron-rich foods in the diet, so total iron intake drops as milk consumption rises. The calcium in milk also interferes with iron absorption, making it harder for the body to use the iron that is consumed. In some cases, large amounts of cow’s milk can cause small amounts of gastrointestinal blood loss, increasing iron loss over time. The combination of reduced iron intake and impaired absorption leads to iron deficiency anemia, which can manifest as pallor, fatigue, irritability, poor growth, and developmental concerns. To prevent this, limit milk to about 24 ounces (700 mL) per day for toddlers, encourage iron-rich foods and fortified cereals, and monitor for symptoms or lab signs of anemia, treating with iron under medical supervision if needed.

A common consequence of excessive milk intake in children is iron deficiency anemia. Milk provides little iron and can crowd out iron-rich foods in the diet, so total iron intake drops as milk consumption rises. The calcium in milk also interferes with iron absorption, making it harder for the body to use the iron that is consumed. In some cases, large amounts of cow’s milk can cause small amounts of gastrointestinal blood loss, increasing iron loss over time. The combination of reduced iron intake and impaired absorption leads to iron deficiency anemia, which can manifest as pallor, fatigue, irritability, poor growth, and developmental concerns. To prevent this, limit milk to about 24 ounces (700 mL) per day for toddlers, encourage iron-rich foods and fortified cereals, and monitor for symptoms or lab signs of anemia, treating with iron under medical supervision if needed.