#asktheexpert hello doctor .my baby is 17 months now and she is not ready to drink ...milk ..what I give her instead of milk.she refuse to eat well

Question

#asktheexpert hello doctor  .my baby is 17 months now and she is not ready to drink ...milk ..what I give her instead of milk.she refuse to eat well

Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers around 17 months to become more selective with food and drink, and it can be a challenge if they refuse milk. Since milk is an important source of nutrients, it’s essential to find alternative ways to ensure your baby gets enough nutrition. Here are some options and tips to help:

1. Offer Other Sources of Calcium and Vitamin D

Since milk is a primary source of calcium and vitamin D, you can provide these nutrients through other foods and drinks:

Yogurt: Plain, full-fat yogurt can be a great substitute for milk. It’s rich in calcium and also contains probiotics, which are good for digestion. Cheese: Small pieces of cheese or cheese slices (like cheddar or mozzarella) can be a good option. Fortified Non-Dairy Milk: If she refuses cow's milk, you can try plant-based milks like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Be sure to choose options without added sugars. Fortified Juices: Some fruit juices are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. You can offer a small amount to help meet these nutritional needs. 2. Increase Solid Foods Rich in Nutrients

If she’s refusing liquids, focus on nutrient-dense foods:

Leafy Greens: Incorporate cooked spinach, kale, or other leafy greens into her meals. These are rich in calcium and iron. Tofu: Tofu is a good source of calcium and protein, and it can be added to soups, smoothies, or served on its own. Fortified Cereals: Look for cereals that are fortified with iron and other essential nutrients. You can mix them with fruit or yogurt for added flavor. Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients. Beans and Lentils: They are rich in protein and iron, which can help in place of some of the nutritional value she might miss from milk. 3. Offer Milk in Different Forms

If your baby is refusing milk in its usual form, try offering it in different ways:

Milk Smoothies: You can blend milk with fruits (like bananas or berries) to make a smoothie. This could make it more appealing. Cereal with Milk: Sometimes, toddlers may prefer milk when it's mixed with cereal. Flavored Milk: Try adding a little bit of vanilla, cinnamon, or chocolate powder to the milk (but avoid too much sugar). 4. Increase Hydration

If she’s refusing milk but still drinks water or juice, make sure she stays hydrated. Offer water throughout the day, and you can also give small amounts of fruit juice if desired (but limit it to avoid too much sugar).

5. Encourage Eating Small Meals

Since she’s refusing to eat well, try offering smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones. Toddlers often eat better when they’re not overwhelmed by a big plate of food. You can try:

Finger Foods: Offer her small, bite-sized pieces of soft fruit, vegetables, crackers, or other easy-to-eat foods. Food Pairing: Pair foods she likes with ones she may be reluctant to try, to make the meal more appealing. 6. Be Patient and Keep Offering

Sometimes, toddlers refuse foods for a while, but their preferences can change. Keep offering milk or milk alternatives in a calm and patient manner, and try not to force it. If she sees milk regularly, she may be more willing to try it eventually.

7. Consult Your Pediatrician

If your baby continues to refuse milk and isn't eating well, it’s important to consult your pediatrician. They can assess if there are any underlying issues or nutrient deficiencies and may suggest an appropriate solution or alternative like a multivitamin supplement.

In the meantime, focus on offering a variety of foods and drinks that provide balanced nutrition to ensure she’s getting what she needs.