26 Sep World School Milk day 26th Sep 2018

This special day was first launched in 2000 and more than 30 countries join in, showing that school milk interest is worldwide! In the UK, school milk has a long history, over 100 years, after the Great depression and the World Wars, malnutrition was a large concern and so school milk schemes were introduced!

But why is milk good for your child’s teeth?

Milk contains calcium, phosphate, and proteins and is low in sugar. It’s all about Calcium! Calcium is a major component of teeth and it is present in high quantities in milk. According to statistics, on average a carton of school milk helps provide 52% of the recommended calcium intake for a 4-6 year old and 42% for a 7-10 year old.

Calcium is an important nutrient for healthy teeth, as it strengthens enamel (the outer layer of the tooth) and the enamel acting as the outer shell of the tooth protects teeth against cavities, decay and erosion. Calcium, phosphate and milk proteins known as caseins combine together to form a protective film on the enamel. This coating helps to prevent your teeth from decay caused by common bacterial acids.

It is true that milk contains sugars (lactose) and when consumed in frequent sipping quantities throughout the day even these sugars could lead to cavities! So remember to brush twice a day and especially before bed!