Kuala lumpur: Health problems related to nutrient deficiencies among Malaysians could be addressed by a simple habit - drinking just two glasses of milk a day, say two nutrient experts.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) nutrition expert Prof Dr Hamid Jan Jan Mohamed highlighted in a recent statement that findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2024 reveal a troubling trend. Only three per cent of adolescents and one per cent of adults in Malaysia consume milk daily, which is linked to long-term health issues such as osteoporosis, sarcopenia, frailty, and chronic fatigue.
Dr Hamid Jan further explained that the survey indicated a staggering 98 per cent of adolescents and 96 per cent of adults in Malaysia are not meeting their daily calcium needs. There is also a widespread deficiency in phosphorus, vitamin D, and vitamin B2. This chronic underconsumption of dairy contributes to these nutrient deficiencies, potentially leading to severe health consequences.
He emphasized that these nutrients are essential for bone development, energy metabolism, and muscle health. Dr Hamid Jan warned that the gap in nutrient intake could have significant implications for the national health system as Malaysia progresses toward an ageing population. He advocated for the simple yet effective practice of drinking two glasses of milk daily to prevent avoidable health issues in the future.
Professor Dr Poh Bee Koon from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), an expert in childhood and adolescent nutrition, supported this view, stating that the belief that milk is only for young children is a persistent myth. She pointed out that milk is crucial at every life stage, from growing children to active adults and seniors. She cited the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation that young children should consume milk at least twice a day, totaling 200 to 500 millilitres daily, equivalent to about two glasses, depending on their overall diet.
Dr Poh stressed that just two glasses of milk daily can significantly impact an individual's health by providing essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, vitamin D, which are necessary for bone strength, muscle function, and overall well-being.