When you were young, your parents told you that milk was good for you so you drank it. There was no debate then. Nowadays things are a little more complicated because various studies that were conducted offered some strict guidelines about how much milk was needed and what kind is necessary. However, the main question is the one that is above.
We will try to quickly go through why your baby needs milk, what kind and how much so that we can help you in making the appropriate choice.
Table of Contents
When Does An Infant Need To Drink Milk?
It is important to realize that cow milk is not properly digested by the baby. It does not have the important nutrients that formula or breast milk offers. Until one year old, the baby should only drink special milk like Aptamil Milk or breast milk.
Low Fat Milk Or Whole Milk?
Until the baby reaches the age of two, you should use whole milk. That is because fat is necessary for brain and nerve development. Only in the event that the baby gains weight too fast you should talk to a pediatrician for a proper assessment of the situation. After the age of 2, go for 1 or 2 fat percent milk. The baby only has to switch to skim milk if there is a weight problem.
Milk And Bones
Most people say that milk is very good for the bones of the baby but that is not backed up by proper scientific proof. However, we do know that a strong bone needs physical activity, calcium and genetics. Also, vitamin D is necessary to help the body absorb calcium properly. Milk does include all that, together with different other nutrients so the choice cannot harm the baby.
How Much Milk Should The Baby Drink?
It is now recommended that 3 dairy servings are offered for the child between the ages of 4 and eight. Two servings are enough for those younger. A serving is basically one cup of milk in our case.
Some people will tell you that milk helps babies to stay thin. That is not the case according to a Harvard study that was recently published. We now know that milk is really healthy but we need to also consider the fact that it includes calories. When you have an overweight baby, it is better to go for water.
Another problem is that when babies drink too much milk, they will end up feeling full and will not want to eat other foods that have other important nutrients. Never go over the recommended amount of servings so that the baby can actually receive all the nutrients that are necessary or body development.
What If The Baby Does Not Like Milk?
You cannot actually force your child to drink milk. If he/she simply does not like it, you can go for other different dairy foods that are fortified and that are suitable calcium sources. However, before you do that, at least try flavored milk! It might be the solution you needed.
