Nestlé teams up with bone health expert

20 October, 2008

Nestlé teams up with bone health expert to help children grow strong and healthy bones

Nestlé has teamed up with world renowned children’s bone health expert Professor Ailsa Goulding this Osteoporosis Awareness Week (20-25 October) to remind Kiwi parents and children that now is the time to lay the foundations for life-long bone health.

Professor Goulding, from Otago University’s Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, says research indicates that childhood fractures are becoming more common.

“This may be related to rising obesity, inactivity or inadequate nutrition, but children who break bones repeatedly account for two thirds of all childhood fractures and those who experience a fracture early – under the age of five – have higher overall fracture rates.”

“Prior fracture increases the risk of further fractures and distal forearm is the most common site of fracture. Children with these fractures have lower bone density than those who are fracture-free – indicating that bone weakness is a contributor.”

Professor Goulding says healthy eating and exercise helps children avoid painful broken bones and encourages strong and healthy bones in later life.

“Milk is a really important source of bone building calcium and protein for children. While milk on its own is always the first choice, the addition of MILO can not only help encourage children to drink more milk but it also contributes six essential vitamins and minerals.” (Vitamins A, B1, B2, C, calcium, iron).

One cup of MILO made with trim milk will give a child aged 9+ valuable protein and more than a third of their daily calcium requirement.

Professor Goulding says, “It’s important that a protein and calcium rich diet is accompanied by lots of healthy weight bearing exercise and activity for growing children. Walking, running, and playing sport all help build strong bones and prevent excess weight gain. Excess weight is also not good for growing skeletons.”

Nestlé is a supporter of Osteoporosis New Zealand, which amongst other things, works to raise awareness and knowledge about the importance of consuming adequate calcium rich dairy products during childhood for good bone health.

Osteoporosis New Zealand executive director Julia Gallagher says, “Building strong bones in childhood and teenage years is the best way to ensure healthy bones in later life. We appreciate Nestlé’s support and its work in encouraging children to get the right mix of nutrition and exercise to ensure they have strong and healthy bones now and in the future.”

ENDS

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