The best milk depends on your child's age. For babies under 12 months, only breastmilk (maa ka doodh) or infant formula like NAN Pro or Lactogen should be given - never cow's milk. After 1 year, whole cow's milk or buffalo milk becomes beneficial. Toddlers need 2 cups of doodh daily for strong bones and healthy development. Milk is packed with calcium, protein, and vitamin D that are essential for your growing child.
Watch: Always look for this early hunger cues.Do you feed your baby only after they start crying?
In Indian households, doodh has always held a special place in child nutrition - and science backs this up! Milk contains nearly every nutrient your child needs for proper growth.
| Nutrient | Amount (per 250ml whole milk) | Benefit for Children |
|---|---|---|
| **Calcium** | 300mg | Strong bones & teeth (haddiyon ki mazbooti) |
| **Protein** | 8g | Muscle growth, tissue repair |
| **Vitamin D** | 2.5mcg | Bone health, immunity |
| **Vitamin B12** | 1.1mcg | Brain development, red blood cells |
| **Potassium** | 350mg | Heart health, blood pressure |
| **Phosphorus** | 230mg | Bone mineralization |
| **Vitamin A** | 150mcg | Eye health, immunity |
| **Riboflavin (B2)** | 0.4mg | Energy production |
Did you know? Just 2 cups of milk provides 60% of a toddler's daily calcium needs and 50% of protein requirements!
Breastmilk is the gold standard. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months and continued breastfeeding up to 2 years alongside solid foods.
Infant Formula (when breastmilk is not available or insufficient):
| Brand | Stage 1 (0-6 months) | Stage 2 (6-12 months) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| **NAN Pro** | NAN Pro 1 | NAN Pro 2 | Probiotics, DHA/ARA, premium |
| **Lactogen** | Lactogen 1 | Lactogen 2 | Affordable, widely available |
| **Similac** | Similac Advance 1 | Similac Advance 2 | Prebiotics, no palm oil |
| **Enfamil** | Enfamil A+ Stage 1 | Enfamil A+ Stage 2 | Brain-building nutrients |
Important: Never give cow's milk, buffalo milk, or plant-based milk to babies under 1 year as their primary drink.
Whole milk (full cream) is recommended:
Why full fat? Toddlers' brains are rapidly developing and need the fat content in whole milk. Don't give toned or skimmed milk to children under 2 years.
Can transition to:
For children with lactose intolerance or milk allergy (after consulting pediatrician):
| Alternative | Protein | Calcium | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soy milk | High | Fortified | Best overall alternative |
| Almond milk | Low | Fortified | Nut lovers, lactose intolerance |
| Oat milk | Medium | Fortified | Creamy taste preference |
| Coconut milk | Low | Often fortified | Cooking, not primary drink |
| A2 milk | Same as regular | Same | Easier digestion for some |
Note: Always choose calcium-fortified versions of plant milks.
| Age Group | Daily Milk Amount | Type of Milk |
|---|---|---|
| 0-6 months | On-demand breastfeeding OR 600-900ml formula | Breastmilk/NAN/Lactogen |
| 6-12 months | Breastmilk/formula remains primary; continue on-demand | Breastmilk/Stage 2 formula |
| 12-24 months | 400-480ml (2 cups) | Full cream cow's milk |
| 2-3 years | 400ml (2 cups) | Toned or full cream |
| 4-8 years | 480-600ml (2-2.5 cups) | Toned milk |
| 9+ years | 720ml (3 cups) | Toned/double-toned |
Warning: Don't exceed 500ml daily for toddlers - too much milk can reduce appetite for solid foods and cause iron deficiency.
Calcium and vitamin D work together to build strong bones. Children who drink adequate milk have higher bone density and lower risk of fractures.
High-quality proteins (whey and casein) in milk support muscle building and tissue repair - essential for active, growing children.
Milk provides vitamin B12, iodine, and healthy fats needed for cognitive development, memory, and concentration.
Protein in milk keeps children feeling full longer, reducing unhealthy snacking. Studies show children who drink milk have healthier weights.
Unlike sugary drinks, milk provides hydration along with essential nutrients - a double benefit!
| Preparation | Recipe | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| **Haldi Doodh** | Warm milk + pinch of turmeric | Immunity, anti-inflammatory |
| **Elaichi Doodh** | Milk + crushed cardamom | Digestion, pleasant taste |
| **Kesar Doodh** | Milk + few strands saffron | Memory, traditional remedy |
| **Badam Doodh** | Milk + almond paste | Brain health, energy |
Best practice: Plain milk with natural additions (elaichi, badam) is healthiest.
Consult your pediatrician if:
Expert Insight: As Dr. Sumitra says, 'Fed is best. Formula is a completely valid choice and provides excellent nutrition.'
A: Both are good quality formulas from Nestle and provide complete infant nutrition. NAN Pro contains added probiotics (good bacteria for digestion) and is priced higher. Lactogen is more affordable and equally nutritious. Your pediatrician may recommend one based on your baby's specific needs. Some babies digest one better than the other - you may need to try to see which suits your baby.
A: This is common! Try these tips:
A: Haan, bilkul! Mixed feeding (combination feeding) is perfectly safe and very common. Many mothers breastfeed when with baby and give formula when at work. Always breastfeed first if possible, then top up with formula. Both NAN Pro and Lactogen can be given alongside breastmilk.
A: A 2-month-old typically needs:
Every baby is different - follow hunger cues rather than forcing a fixed amount. Baby should have 6+ wet diapers daily if getting enough.
A: A2 milk contains only A2 beta-casein protein (regular milk has both A1 and A2). Some children who have mild digestive discomfort with regular milk may tolerate A2 milk better. However, for most children, regular cow's milk is perfectly fine. A2 milk is more expensive and not necessary unless your child has specific digestive issues with regular milk.
A: Limit milk to 400-480ml (2 cups) daily. Excess milk:
Offer milk with meals or as snack, not throughout the day. If toddler demands more, offer water instead.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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