Impact of milk consumption on cognition and health of primary school children in rural Vietnam

Multiple micronutrient deficiencies are common in children in developing countries, and usually are responsible for the observed physical and mental growth retardation and/or increased disease prevalence. In the rural area of northern Vietnam deficient micronutrients included iron and zinc. Remarkably, fibre consumption was also reported as low despite the expected high consumption of vegetables and root crops. It could be deducted that available carbohydrates for fermentation by the intestinal microbiota is also limited leading to a sub-optimal microbiota further increasing susceptibility to infections and hence a negative contribution to growth. Up to date no data has been published on the faecal microbiota composition of Vietnamese children.



This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of milk, and milk enriched with selected micronutrients as well as with the soluble prebiotic fibre inulin, in improving the nutritional status of primary schoolchildren in rural Vietnam. Health and performance indicators were included as well as changes in faecal microbiota composition.

(Fortified) milk consumption effects antropometrics, health, cognition and quality of life of primary school childeren in rural Vietnam.

- Antroprometrics: T=0, T=3mths, T=6 mths

- Blood, Urine samples: T=0, T=3mths, T=6 mths

- Fecal samples: T=0 and T= 3 mths

- Quality of life questionaire: T=0 and T=6 mths

- Mental performance tests: T=0 and T=6 mths

1) Regular milk

2) Fortified milk

3) Control group