When it comes to small kids, why is milk beneficial? Is it necessary for youngsters to consume milk? Many parents are questioning the necessity of all that milk for their young children, especially with the rise of vegan and plant-based diets.
So, is it true that milk is good for a toddler's body? Why is milk a healthy option, and what kind of milk is best?
Let's learn how much your child should drink, as well as the health benefits and alternatives to cow's milk.
Milk: An Excellent Source Of Nutrients
- Milk can play a key role in a child's nutrition, from an infant drinking breast milk to a toddler eating cereal with milk to a young teen putting milk in a smoothie.
- Cow's milk, in particular, contains a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that children require for proper growth and development.
- Breast milk is the first food that your baby will eat. It contains nutrients, antibodies, and a variety of other elements that aid in their mental and physical growth. They will, however, be weaned off and begin consuming solid foods sooner or later.
Types of Milk
While most people associate the word "milk" with cow's milk, the term now consists of various beverages. The nutritional value of various types of milk varies significantly.
The following are examples of different types of "milk" that children may consume:
- Cow's milk (including whole, 2%, 1%, fat-free/skim, and Flavored varieties like chocolate milk)
- Pasteurized Milk at Ultra-High Temperature also known as long-lasting milk or extended shelf-life milk, and it's perfectly safe for your youngster.
- Milk from a goat or sheep
- Dairy substitutes (such as rice, almond, soy, coconut, cashew, hemp, and oat)
Is it Really Necessary for Children to Drink Whole Milk?
- Many children have low levels of vitamin D, a nutrient produced naturally by the body in response to sun exposure.
- Children with low vitamin D levels, especially those in their early years, are at risk for rickets (softening of the bones) and stunted growth.
- Cow's milk is one of the most effective ways to replenish this vitamin, and it is essential for your child's health.
Dairy milk contains important nutrients that help a child's growing body, such as-
- Calcium - a mineral that promotes bone health.
- Vitamin D - Important for bone and heart health.
- Protein - required for infants and children's development
- Potassium - aids in the maintenance of normal blood pressure.
- Vitamin B3 (niacin) - B vitamin that aids in the conversion of food into energy.
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) - B vitamin that aids in the conversion of food into energy.
- Vitamin B12 - is necessary for the formation of red blood cells.
- Vitamin A - aids in the immune system's improvement.
- Phosphorus - a mineral that promotes bone health.
Recommended Amount Of Milk For Kids
Each child's nutritional needs are different, the following amounts of milk are recommended to help a child grow and develop:
- Newborns (0-12 months) – A child should consume breast milk or infant formula before the age of 12 months.
- 12-24 months – two to three cups of whole dairy milk per day
- 2-3 years – up to two cups of skim or low-fat dairy milk per day
- 4–8 years – up to two and a half cups of skim or low-fat dairy milk per day
- 9-18 years – up to three cups of skim or low-fat dairy milk per day
Talk to your child's pediatrician or a nutritionist if your child has a milk allergy, has trouble digesting lactose (the sugar in milk), or has other dietary restrictions to ensure your child is getting the nutrients he or she needs to stay healthy.
Milk's Surprising Health Benefits
Milk has several advantages for children. The following benefits are
- Bone Development: Milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is crucial for building strong bones and teeth in children.
- Muscle Growth: Milk contains high-quality proteins, including whey and casein, that help with muscle growth and repair.
- Brain Development: Milk is a good source of vitamin D, which plays a vital role in cognitive development, including memory, attention, and processing speed.
- Healthy Weight: The protein in milk helps to reduce hunger and keep children feeling full for longer, which can aid in weight management.
- Hydration: Milk is a healthy and nutritious option for staying hydrated throughout the day, unlike sugary drinks.
Kids' Milk: Which is Best?
- Breast Milk is best for babies under one year, with dairy products like cheese and yogurt introduced after six months.
- Whole milk is suitable for babies over one year, and after age two, both whole and non-fat milk are good options.
- Lactose intolerant kids can try fortified soy, rice, almond, or lite coconut milk, as well as calcium-fortified foods like orange juice, bread, and tofu.
Conclusion
Milk is a nutrient-rich food that is essential for a child's growth and development. The recommended amount of milk varies by age, and there are alternatives for those with dietary restrictions. Milk has several health benefits, including bone development, muscle growth, brain development, healthy weight, and hydration, making it a great choice for kids.
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