Health disparities and nutritional deficiencies plague countless communities across America and millions of children are going to bed hungry or undernourished. Among those most affected are Black American households who face disproportionate health challenges due to systemic inequities. The health disparities affecting Black Americans are stark and begin early, with higher rates of maternal and infant mortality, extending through life with increased chronic diseases.
For generations, dairy foods have often been avoided in Black communities, largely due to concerns over symptoms of lactose intolerance and deeply ingrained myths about its compatibility with Black health. Coupled with historical mistrust of the healthcare system and systemic inequities in access to nutrition education, these beliefs have prevented Black Americans from accessing the essential nutrients provided by dairy foods. In fact, studies suggest that the lack of dairy consumption in the underserved Black community may contribute to higher risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, obesity and type 2 diabetes.
With the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans being issued soon, I believe it is essential that we address these long-standing myths around dairy avoidance and recognize their historical and social roots to adequately address the concerns of Black Americans. Dairy foods are a critical ally in the quest for better health, particularly in under-resourced Black communities disproportionately affected by systemic inequities, chronic disease and limited access to affordable, nutrient-dense foods.
Decades of research, championed by organizations like the National Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, underscore the critical role of three daily servings of dairy foods in a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for Black Americans across the lifespan. Dairy foods like milk and lactose-free dairy milk, yogurt and cheese deliver an abundant supply of essential nutrients like protein, zinc, selenium, iodine, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins A, D and B12. These nutrients are foundational for growth, development and maintaining overall health across the life span, particularly in the first 1,000 days from conception to baby’s second birthday for developing brains, bones and bodies. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the Healthy Beverage Guidelines recommend only milk for nourishment and water for hydration for children 5 and under, and alternative beverages are not recommended other than fortified soy for those with a dairy protein allergy.
As a pediatrician, one of the most common concerns I hear from Black parents is lactose intolerance. There are several solutions to tackle this issue so more people can reap the nutrition and health benefits of dairy foods:
- Lactose-free dairy milk is real dairy milk without the lactose. It delivers the same 13 essential nutrients in each 8-ounce glass for about 55 cents per serving.
- Fermented dairy foods like yogurt and kefir contain live cultures that help break down lactose. Cheese also is a fermented food and contains minimal lactose.
- Lactase supplements can be taken with dairy foods for those who are not making enough of the lactase enzyme on their own. It helps break down lactose and aids digestion.
A diet that meets the daily recommendations for dairy foods is linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and certain types of cancer. Following the healthy eating patterns of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommend three servings of dairy daily, can contribute to improved health outcomes among Black Americans. This nutrition advice was recently reinforced in an evidence-based Supplement to the Journal of the National Medical Association, entitled, “The role of dairy food intake for improving health among Black Americans across the life continuum.” It is my strong belief as a physician that more education can be done about the benefits of the dairy food group, including lactose-free dairy options. I underscore the importance of maintaining the recommendation for three daily servings of dairy foods in dietary guidance to support a healthier nation.
Addressing health inequities requires tackling systemic issues like racism, socioeconomic status and food and nutrition insecurity. To truly make a difference, we need evidence-based and culturally sensitive strategies to overcome barriers to healthy eating. This means ensuring that all Black American communities have access to the nutrition they need to thrive while supporting initiatives that screen for food insecurity and provide necessary resources, including education on dairy nutrition and how to manage lactose intolerance properly.
As we champion these dietary changes, we not only enhance individual health but also move closer to health equity. By fostering better nutrition and challenging historical myths, we pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
