When Can a Child Start Drinking Cow’s Milk?

In general, a baby should start drinking cow’s milk after the age of 12 months. This is because cow’s milk is comparatively heavier to digest than formula or mother’s milk. Cow’s milk contains high concentrations of proteins and minerals which are pretty difficult for a baby to digest easily.

Why Introduce Cow’s Milk to a Toddler?

Milk is a rich source of calcium and protein which helps in building strong bones and muscles. It keeps a toddler energetic and physically active.

Do Breastmilk needs to be Stopped after the Introduction of Cow’s milk?

There is no need to stop breastfeeding your child even if you have started giving cow’s milk to him/her. As long as your child is comfortable having both, you shall continue breastfeeding your child.

How much glass of milk should my child drink?

According to medical experts, a 1-year-old toddler gets sufficient calcium and other vital nutrients from 16 ounces, i.e. 473 ml of milk. Thus, give your toddler a glass of milk during the daytime and a second glass during the evening.
By the age of 2, your toddler requires 18 ounces (532 ml) of cow’s milk. So distribute the servings accordingly.

What to do if your child is not interested in drinking milk?

Some toddlers may not like the taste of cow’s milk initially and thus may throw tantrums or dislike towards the milk. In that case, mix cow’s milk with some formula milk. This will develop the taste and your child will start drinking cow’s milk happily.
If still, it does not work, then do not be worried about the nutritional requirements of your child. You can try these alternatives.

• Add milk to your child’s breakfast cereals.
• Serve other dairy products like cheese, butter, yogurt, ghee, eggs, etc.
• You may also add milk to the curry of vegetables. This is one of the healthy options.

What if the child is vegan?

If the child is vegan in its eating habits, then it is good to have a consultation with the doctor to get prescribed calcium and vitamin D supplements.

Can my child have Lactose intolerance?

Usually, children outgrow the food allergies that may have during their childhood. However, if you observe that your child is showing signs of lactose intolerance after every consumption of dairy products, you should seek help from the pediatrician.

The usual symptoms of lactose intolerance are:

• Rashes around the mouth or chin
• Abdominal discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Itchiness

In case of lactose intolerance, you should be very careful to completely avoid dairy products and those foods which contain any milk-based products.

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