Draft Australian Dietary Guidelines (PDF, 3MB) - Eat For Health

2.5.4.1 Pregnant and breastfeeding womenMilk, yoghurt and cheese product intake during pregnancy has clear benefits for both women andtheir babies. Reduced-fat milk, yoghurt and cheese products are recommended during pregnancyand while breastfeeding [220, 362].Pregnant women are advised to avoid consuming unpasteurised dairy products and soft, semi-softand surface-ripened cheeses (for example, brie, camembert, ricotta, fetta and blue cheeses) due torisk of listeriosis [130, 420].2.5.4.2 InfantsCow’s milk should not be given as a drink to infants under 12 months of age. However cow’s milkmay be served in small quantities as custards and desserts. All milk given to infants over 12 monthsshould be pasteurised. Any milk given to infants under 12 months should be specially preparedinfant formula.Children under two years are growing rapidly and have relatively high energy (kilojoule) needs.Reduced fat milks are not recommended as a main milk food for this age, but can be used aftertwo years.2.5.4.3 Children and adolescentsMilk is an important source of calcium and protein for growing children and adolescents. Thedecreased intake of milk and milk products among adolescent girls is of concern, and can lead tolow calcium intake in this group. Diets restricting intake of milk and milk products are notgenerally suitable for growing children and adolescents. Suspected lactose intolerance in childrenand adolescents should be confirmed by a medical practitioner.2.5.4.4 Older peopleFor older Australians, milk is a good source of protein, calcium and energy (kilojoules). All milks,including full cream milk, are good choices for older people whose appetite is reduced or whohave lost weight, unless medically advised otherwise.2.5.4.5 People with lactose intoleranceThe rate of lactose intolerance is relatively high in many Asian communities compared withCaucasians. High rates of lactose intolerance have been described among Aboriginal and TorresStrait Islander groups [421, 422]. Lactose-intolerant adults and children often avoid milk and milkproducts, however up to 250mL of milk may be well tolerated [423]. Cheese contains little lactoseDRAFT Australian Dietary Guidelines- December 2011 67