Milk for Kids: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Dairy Alternatives
Last updated: January 2026
Quick Answer
Is milk essential for my child? YES - milk is excellent for children's growth, but it's not the only source of nutrition and some children may need alternatives.
Doodh (milk) has been a staple of Indian childhood - from "doodh peelo beta" to badam milk at bedtime. And for good reason! Milk provides calcium, protein, and vitamin D that children need. However, too much milk can actually cause problems like kabz (constipation), iron deficiency, and poor appetite. The key is balance - the right amount at the right age.
When Can Children Have Cow's Milk?
Watch: Breast Milk vs. Formula: Why Breast Milk is Best for Your Baby! #breastfeedingbenefits #babyhealth
Age-Wise Guide:
Age
Recommended Milk
Amount
0-6 months
Breast milk only (or formula)
On demand
6-12 months
Breast milk + formula
Continue as needed
12+ months
Can introduce cow's milk
2 cups (400ml) daily
1-2 years
Whole/full-fat milk
2 cups (400ml)
2-5 years
Can switch to toned milk
2 cups (400ml)
5+ years
Toned or double toned
2-3 cups (400-500ml)
Important: Do NOT give cow's milk as main drink before 12 months - it can cause iron deficiency and digestive issues.
Benefits of Milk for Children
1. Strong Bones and Teeth
Rich in calcium
Contains vitamin D (in fortified milk)
Essential for growing children
2. Muscle Growth
High-quality protein
Helps in tissue repair
Important for active children
3. Brain Development
Contains B vitamins
Provides healthy fats (in whole milk)
Supports cognitive function
4. Overall Nutrition
Complete food with multiple nutrients
Provides energy
Good source of potassium
Problems with Too Much Milk
Why 2 Cups is Enough:
Iron Deficiency (Milk Anemia)
Milk is low in iron
Excessive milk reduces appetite for iron-rich foods
Can cause pale skin, weakness
Constipation (Kabz)
Too much milk can harden stools
Common in toddlers who drink only milk
Reduces fiber intake from other foods
Poor Appetite
Milk fills tummy, child refuses food
Misses out on variety of nutrients
Common complaint: "mera bachcha khana nahi khata"
Weight Issues
Too much can lead to excess weight
Or underweight if refusing other foods
Milk and Digestion Problems
Lactose Intolerance:
Some children cannot digest lactose (milk sugar) properly.
Symptoms:
Gas and bloating (pet phoolna)
Pet dard after drinking milk
Loose motion or watery potty
Cramping
What to do:
Try lactose-free milk
Give small amounts with food
Try curd/dahi (easier to digest)
Consider alternatives
Milk Protein Allergy:
Different from lactose intolerance - this is an immune reaction.
Symptoms:
Rash or hives
Vomiting
Blood in stool
Severe reactions (rare)
What to do:
Avoid all dairy
Use specialized formula for babies
Consult pediatrician
What If My Child Won't Drink Milk?
Don't Panic! Alternatives for Calcium:
Food
Calcium Content
How to Give
Curd/Dahi
Excellent
With lunch, as raita
Paneer
Excellent
In sabzi, paratha
Cheese
Good
In sandwich, pasta
Ragi
Good
Porridge, dosa
Sesame (Til)
Excellent
In chutney, ladoo
Green leafy vegetables
Good
In dal, sabzi
Almonds
Good
Soaked, in milk
Oranges
Moderate
As fruit
Tricks to Get Children to Drink Milk:
Flavored Milk:
Badam milk (almond)
Kesar milk (saffron)
Elaichi (cardamom)
Chocolate (occasionally)
Turmeric milk (haldi doodh)
Smoothies:
Blend with fruits
Add dry fruits
Make it a fun drink
In Food:
Kheer
Oats with milk
Suji halwa
Custard
Fun Presentation:
Colorful cups
Special straw
Let child pour themselves
Milk Alternatives
When to Consider Alternatives:
Lactose intolerance
Milk allergy
Vegan preference
Child refuses all dairy
Options Available in India:
Alternative
Pros
Cons
Best For
Soy Milk
High protein, similar to cow's milk
Some allergic
Lactose intolerant
Almond Milk
Light, tasty
Low protein
Older children
Coconut Milk
Creamy, tasty
Low protein
Cooking
Oat Milk
Good fiber
Contains gluten
Not for Celiac
Rice Milk
Hypoallergenic
Low nutrition
Multiple allergies
Note: Plant milks are NOT suitable as main milk source for children under 2 years unless recommended by doctor.
When to See a Doctor
Consult pediatrician if:
Child has symptoms after drinking milk
Blood in stool
Severe vomiting with milk
Family history of milk allergy
Child is not gaining weight properly
You want to eliminate dairy from diet
What's Normal With Milk?
Normal:
Slight preference for flavored over plain milk
Drinking less milk after starting solids
Some gas (normal digestion)
Occasional refusal
Not Normal:
Consistent stomach pain after milk
Regular loose motions with milk
Rash or skin reactions
Complete aversion despite trying
Expert Insight: Dr. Sumitra explains: 'Every baby's poop schedule is different. Some go 7 times a day, some once a week - both can be normal.'
FAQs
Q: My toddler only drinks milk and refuses food - what should I do?
A: This is very common! Reduce milk to 2 cups maximum. Don't give milk 1-2 hours before meals. Offer food when truly hungry. Milk should complement meals, not replace them.
Q: Does milk cause kabz (constipation)?
A: Excessive milk can contribute to constipation, especially if child is drinking more than 2-3 cups and eating less fiber. Balance milk with fiber-rich foods and water.
Q: Which is better - packaged or fresh milk?
A: Both are fine if pasteurized. Packaged milk is already pasteurized. Fresh milk should be boiled before giving. Avoid raw, unpasteurized milk.
Q: Should I give full-fat or toned milk?
A: Children under 2 years need full-fat (whole) milk for brain development. After 2 years, you can switch to toned milk, especially if child is overweight.
Q: My baby has loose motions with cow's milk - is it allergy?
A: Could be lactose intolerance or milk protein allergy. Try stopping milk for a few days. If symptoms improve, discuss with your pediatrician about alternatives and testing.
Q: Can I give buffalo milk instead of cow's milk?
A: Yes, buffalo milk is fine. It's actually higher in fat and calcium. Dilute slightly for young children if needed, as it's richer than cow's milk.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. For personalized advice about milk for your child, consult with Babynama's pediatric experts on WhatsApp.
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