The Influence of Perceived Milk Intolerance on Dairy Product Consumption in Older American Adults

A national probability sample in their 60s (32%), 70s (38%), and 80s (30%) completed a telephone survey (N = 475). Subjective measures indicated that perceived milk intolerance occurred more often in Blacks vs. Whites (35% vs. 17%) and women vs. men (21% vs. 10%). Compared to milk tolerant individuals, milk intolerant individuals were more likely to “not try at all” to consume enough calcium (46% vs. 31%), and more likely to avoid milk during adolescence (30% vs. 15%) and currently (56% vs. 23%). Milk intolerant elders appear at risk for low calcium intakes because of their long history of milk avoidance and lack of concern about consuming enough calcium as adults.