The Effects of Fortified Milk on Height and Biomarkers of Zinc and Vitamin C Levels of Schoolchildren

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effects of consumption fortified milk on the nutritional status and biomarkers of zinc and vitamin C of schoolchildren. Methods: About 141 anemic 6 year old schoolchildren participated in the study. These were randomly allocated into three groups: Group 1: 1 glass of milk; Group 2: 2 glasses of milk; and Group 3 had water only. The milk was fortified with iron, zinc, vitamins A & C. Feeding was done for 120 days under supervised regimen. Anthropometric indices were measured at base and end of the study. Similarly, blood samples were collected for the evaluation of zinc and vitamin C levels. Milk consumption was monitored and documented. Results: There was a significant increase in height in all groups but higher increment was observed in the 2 glasses group. All groups have increased weight from baseline to endline with the 2 glasses group having the highest increment, but were not statistically significant between groups. A significant increasing trend was observed with serum zinc in children fed with milk and more pronounced in children consuming 2 glasses of milk. Conclusions: Consumption of fortified milk have resulted to increased height, zinc and vitamin C levels of schoolchildren and effects are more pronounced when 2 glasses were taken daily.