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For families avoiding cow\u2019s milk, finding the best milk alternative for toddlers, that is nutritionally suitable (and tasty!), can be difficult. Read on to learn about important nutrients in cow milk, why some toddlers may not consume cow\u2019s milk, and what to consider when looking for the best cow\u2019s milk alternative for your little one.<\/p>\n
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends incorporating whole cow\u2019s milk into a child\u2019s diet at the age of 1 year. Since cow\u2019s milk is not nutritionally suitable for infants (it\u2019s notably low in iron), it\u2019s best to stick with breast milk or infant formula before 12 months. However, cow\u2019s milk may be a good complement to a toddler\u2019s healthy diet. Cow\u2019s milk delivers valuable nutrients, including protein, fat, B-vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin D, and zinc. Since fat is essential for growing toddlers, it\u2019s recommended to use full fat cow\u2019s milk.<\/p>\n
While cow\u2019s milk may provide important nutrients for toddlers, it may not be right for everyone. Some children may have symptoms associated with cow\u2019s milk consumption such as tummy troubles, eczema, or chronic congestion. Other families avoid cow\u2019s milk as a matter of personal preference. For toddlers not consuming cow\u2019s milk, it\u2019s important for parents to find a cow\u2019s milk alternative that is nutritionally suitable to support their rapid growth and development.<\/p>\n
The little bodies of toddlers are rapidly growing. So, it\u2019s important that they consume whole foods that can deliver the nutrients critical to this development. While all nutrients play a role in optimal health, picky eating toddlers may miss out on adequate daily intakes of iron, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and protein.<\/p>\n
Plant-based milk may come from soy, coconut, or nuts like almonds or cashews. These kinds of milk may be a delicious option for some children but often lack essential nutrients for young toddlers including protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.<\/p>\n
Goat milk contains naturally easy to digest protein, which forms a softer and smaller curd in the gut compared to cow milk. And, it\u2019s degraded more quickly than cow\u2019s milk protein. Goat\u2019s milk may be a delicious cow\u2019s milk alternative for older children and adults. However, it too lacks some essential nutrients for toddlers, such as folate, iron, and omega 3 fatty acid.<\/p>\n