Recommendations on Milk for KidsĪs kids get older, they rely less on liquid nutrition and more on solid food. To learn more about toddler milk, listen to my interview with Dr. Note: Children should not consume any milk or plant based drinks before they are 1 years old. Plant based milks (except for soy) are not recommended as an exclusive replacement for dairy in kids 1-5 years old unless it’s medically necessary or cultural preferences exist, according to the consensus statement of the Healthy Beverage Consumption in Early Childhood. Often young children under age 2 are drinking whole milk to meet their protein, fat and other nutrient needs. Young toddlers have higher fat and nutrient needs related to their body weight, and higher calories per pound of body weight for growth.Ĭhoosing beverages low in protein, fat or calories can negatively affect the health of a growing toddler. ![]() The younger the child, the more dependent he or she will be on the type of milk you choose as an important source of nutrition.įor example, young toddlers (aged 1-2 years) continue to have unique nutritional requirements different from those of older children and adults. Best Milk for Toddlersįor young kids, drinks provide a major source of nutrition throughout the day. The most important thing when choosing a milk or plant based milk for kids is that you make an informed decision.ĭecide on the beverage that best contributes and complements your child’s nutrient intake from other foods. It may surprise you to learn that some non dairy milk options contain key nutrients in low supply. If you select a milk alternative such as rice, almond, cashew, or coconut milk, you’ll need to pay more attention to other protein and fat sources in your child’s diet. Note: Three cups of dairy won’t meet the requirement for vitamin D, or for calcium in the older child and teen. Age & Nutrient needs for growth and development Give careful attention to these key nutrients if you opt for plant based milk for kids. These non-dairy alternatives tend to be low in protein and vitamin D.Įven if you choose cow’s milk, you still need to make sure your child gets calcium and vitamin D from other sources in the diet. While some plant based milks are high in calcium, they’re not part of the dairy group because they lack other important nutrients. Plant based milks are not an even exchange for milk. One 8oz cup of low-fat cow’s milk contains 8g protein, 310 mg calcium and 80 IU of vitamin D. Selecting food and beverages with nutrients in mind helps you find the right balance in your child’s diet to meet his nutrient needs.Īpproximately 65% of young children and 34% of teenagers do not meet their recommended dairy intake, according to the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.Ĭow’s milk is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients. ![]() The breakdown of milk nutrition for each type of milk, from cow’s milk to cashew milkīeverages and Your Child’s Nutrient Needs.Milk nutrition comparisons are tedious and the information isn’t always easy to find. There are so many plant based milks on the market now and few provide the same nutrients as cow’s milk.įirst you’ll need to understand milk nutrition. ![]() Is your family opting to follow a vegetarian diet? ![]() You want the best for your child, but you just aren’t sure which milk is the right choice.Ĭow’s milk, soy or nut milks may not be an option if your child is allergic. It’s also a personal decision that may reflect cultural considerations, core beliefs, flavor preferences, and any medical conditions your child may have. The non-dairy milk or fortified plant milk you choose is an important decision. Let’s face it, not all milks have the same nutritional benefit for your child. Learn about milk nutrition and the factors to consider when choosing the best milk for kids. Deciding which milk to give your child isn’t always straightforward.
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