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In the age of social media, a flood of health advice—often unverified—is constantly circulated online. A recent trend suggests that milk should only be consumed by children, and that it may be harmful for young adults and older people. Such posts are gaining popularity among influencers, leading to confusion. But what’s the truth? Should young people stop drinking milk? Is it really harmful to adults? Let's hear what the experts have to say.

Milk is a natural powerhouse of nutrition, rich in:

• Calcium – for strong bones and teeth
• High-quality protein – essential for muscle repair and growth
• Vitamin D – aids calcium absorption and boosts immunity
• Vitamin B12 – supports brain and nervous system function
• Potassium – maintains healthy blood pressure

According to health experts, these nutrients are beneficial across all age groups, not just children. In fact, milk plays an important role in bone development during youth and bone maintenance in old age.

Dr. Ankit Bansal, from the Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases at Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute, New Delhi, clarifies that milk is safe and beneficial for everyone — be it children, young adults, or the elderly.

“Milk doesn’t harm young people. Unless someone has a diagnosed milk allergy or lactose intolerance, milk is perfectly healthy. Misleading information on social media should not influence your dietary choices,” says Dr. Bansal.

In cases of lactose intolerance—where the body cannot digest the lactose sugar in milk—people may experience bloating, gas, or diarrhea. But even then, options like lactose-free milk, curd, cheese, and plant-based alternatives (like almond or soy milk) are viable.

Milk becomes even more important as people age, especially for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis, a common condition among the elderly. Since bones naturally lose strength with age, regular calcium and vitamin D intake from milk can help reduce the risk of fractures.

Calling milk "harmful" for young people is unscientific and misleading, says Dr. Bansal.

“Milk has been a trusted source of nutrition for centuries. Unless you’re allergic, there’s no reason to avoid it,” he adds.

Dr. Paramjeet Kaur, a dietician at AIIMS, also supports this view. According to her:

“Milk is one of the best sources of calcium. It not only strengthens bones and teeth but also fills nutritional gaps in the daily diet. Unless someone has a medical reason, milk should be part of a healthy diet.”

Many social media trends are not backed by science, and the “milk is only for kids” argument is no different. Here’s the reality:

• Fact: Milk is rich in essential nutrients that support health at every age.
• Myth: Adults and elderly people should avoid milk.
• Fact: There is no scientific evidence that milk harms young people or older adults unless a medical condition is present.