Can I give milk to children: the expert's answer

Every parent teaches their children to drink milk from an early age. This is not surprising, as the product contains large amounts of vitamin C, which is essential for bone growth and strength. But it is worth remembering that dairy products should be introduced into the diet with caution, as there are many nuances.

Nutritionist Maria Brylkovska (mariya_brylkovska) shared the best age to give milk to children on her Instagram page. Follow the expert's recommendations to avoid harm.

At what age can a child be offered milk?

The expert notes that pasteurized/ultra-pasteurized milk and dairy products can be offered to a child from the beginning of complementary feeding, i.e. from about 6 months.

But milk as a drink should not be given to a child under 12 months of age, due to the possible risk of intestinal bleeding, the burden of the still immature baby's kidneys, and impaired iron absorption. Therefore, until the age of 1, milk can be offered in small quantities as an ingredient in a dish or dairy products such as cottage cheese or natural yogurt.

Unpasteurized milk and dairy products (homemade milk, cottage cheese, sour cream, etc.) are prohibited for children under 5 years of age due to the high risk of foodborne illness.

Milk and dairy products are among the 14 most common allergens, so offer in microservings at first and if there are no allergic reactions, increase the portion over a few days. After that, include dairy products or milk regularly in the child's diet to maintain tolerance as well as variety.

If a child has a confirmed lactose intolerance or milk allergy, there are alternative products. In case of lactose intolerance, there are lactose-free products.