For a long time, experts have advised that children drink 3 servings of milk a day. But people disagree on whether whole milk or nonfat milk is best. This study will help us understand how whole milk and nonfat milk affect a child’s nutrition and health.

Your child may be eligible for this study if they meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 9–12

• Live in Greater Boston area

• BMI ≥ 75th percentile

• BMI Calculator

Exclusion Criteria:

• Aversion to whole/nonfat milk

• Major medical illness

• Eating disorder

• Milk allergy

Overall Duration

Study lasts 12 months for all participants

In-Lab Activities

Participants will visit the study site 3 times during the study.

Some visits may include additional procedures such as:

1. Body scanner

2. Height / weight

3. Blood pressure

4. Body composition

5. Eating habit questions

6. Questionnaires

7. Possible small blood samples

Staff will explain everything clearly before anything is done.

At-Home Activities

At home, families will be asked to follow simple study instructions and daily reminder texts will be sent.

This may include:

1. Randomized to whole or nonfat milk

2. Drinking 3 cups of milk daily as directed that will be delivered to your home

3. Monthly 15-min virtual visits

4. Answering 3 short surveys about your child’s diet and habits (Baseline, 6 Months, 12 Months)

• Tracking what your child eats or drinks on certain days

These activities are usually quick and may take a few minutes per day or a few times per week.

Any information you share is kept private. Personal details are not shared outside the research team.

Families who take part will receive compensation for their time up to $205. Participants will also receive study-related milk at no cost delivered to thier home. Public transportation support up to $15 is available, as well as free parking onsite. 

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.