Can we stop giving milk for kids from age 3

Question

Accepted Answer

While milk is a good source of essential nutrients for young children, including calcium, vitamin D, and protein, it is possible to stop giving milk to a child after age 3, provided they receive those nutrients from other sources. Here's what to consider if you plan to reduce or eliminate milk from your child's diet:

### Nutritional Needs

**Calcium**:
- Important for bone growth and development.
- Alternative sources: Leafy green vegetables (kale, broccoli), fortified plant-based milks (almond, soy, oat), tofu, almonds, and calcium-fortified orange juice.

**Vitamin D**:
- Supports calcium absorption and bone health.
- Alternative sources: Fortified plant-based milks, fortified cereals, fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), and exposure to sunlight.

**Protein**:
- Essential for growth and development.
- Alternative sources: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and soy products.

### Transitioning from Milk

1. **Gradual Reduction**:
   - Gradually reduce the amount of milk while introducing other nutrient-rich foods.

2. **Diverse Diet**:
   - Ensure your child's diet includes a variety of foods to cover all nutritional bases.

3. **Fortified Alternatives**:
   - Use fortified plant-based milk alternatives to replace cow’s milk.

### Monitoring Health

- **Growth and Development**: Keep an eye on your child's growth and overall health. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician are important.
- **Bone Health**: Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake to support bone health.

### Dietary Guidelines

- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that children aged 2-3 years should get 2 cups of milk or equivalent dairy per day.
- For children aged 4-8 years, the recommendation is 2.5 cups per day.

### Tips for a Balanced Diet

- **Vegetables and Fruits**: Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables.
- **Whole Grains**: Provide whole grain bread, pasta, rice, and cereals.
- **Protein**: Offer a variety of protein sources, including beans, lentils, lean meats, and fish.
- **Healthy Fats**: Include sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds.

### Consult a Pediatrician

Before making significant changes to your child's diet, consult with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and ensure that your child’s nutritional needs are being met without milk.

In summary, it is possible to stop giving milk to a child after age 3 if their diet is well-balanced and provides all the necessary nutrients. Regular medical guidance will help ensure that your child's growth and development are on track.

Accepted Answer

Hello dear parent! Give one glass of milk before sleeping. Limit the dairy intake to maximum of 500ml per day. Rest of the nutrition should come from healthy foods. Serve your child with healthy foods in cute Babyhug bowls to encourage healthy eating