OPINIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF INDIAN DIETITIANS REGARDING BOVINE MILK

In the recent past, the possible role of milk in disease pathology has been debated in the scientic community. Dietitians play an important role in healthcare as diet is important for promotion of health; and prevention and management of noncommunicable diseases. Therefore, this study was undertaken to understand dietitians' perspectives on dairy and milk. Fifty-one female dietitians were interviewed to understand their opinions and recommendations about milk. Their opinions on milk alternatives, the causative role of milk in diseases and the A1/A2 milk debate were also sought. Almost all the dietitians (96.1%) stated that milk is good for health and is a good source of calcium and protein. Most dietitians advocated the inclusion of milk for all age groups. However, about one-tenth of dietitians were concerned that milk may be a causative factor for ASD (9.8%) and T1DM (13.6%). Milk was associated with an increased risk of PCOS (52.9%), gastric discomfort (94.1%), and IBS (90.2%). Approximately two-thirds of dietitians (60.8%) recommended plant-based milk alternatives. Further research with a larger number of dietitians is required to determine dietitians' viewpoints about dairy at a national level and to know their practices and knowledge about milk.