It is ok to use small amounts of cow’s milk in cooking from six months onwards. But you should wait until your baby has reached her first birthday, before giving it as a drink. This is because, digestion of cow milk is not as easy as compared to breastmilk. Cow’s milk contains high concentrations of protein and minerals, which can strain your baby’s immature kidneys. So the big question arise when cow milk should be introduced to babies? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends NO cow’s milk until after the first birthday. Many infants develop problems with cow’s milk formula (allergies, gastrointestinal problems, etc.). Babies who are exposed to cow’s milk before their first birthday are more likely to be anemic, have diarrhea or vomiting, and/or experience an allergic reaction. Introduction of cow’s milk before a year to babies is still controversial among experts. It’s better to get your baby’s doctor’s opinion on this.
After her first birthday, you can introduce her to full-fat cow’s milk. Below are the few strategies you can opt to introduce cow milk to your toddler:
Baby Sip- Introduce it slowly:
You can take baby steps- err “baby sips” while introducing cow milk. Introduce milk slowly but steadily to a child who’s used to breast milk or formula. This will help her tummy and taste buds will get accustomed to the new beverage. Gradual introduction of cow milk helps babies to get adjusted to the taste and texture of cow’s milk
If Baby Refuses Cow’s Milk:
There are many babies who may refuse to have cow milk. While transition give your baby warm milk to drink. Formula and breast milk are warm milk, so it’s good idea to maintain the same temperature of cow’s milk.
Monitor Milk Allergy:
Keep an eye on baby for symptoms of lactose or dairy intolerance. Here are the signs of lactose intolerance. Rashes, gastrointestinal or stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea can all indicate a milk allergy. Always ready with a backup plan if you notice any symptoms that are for lactose or dairy intolerance. If your child develop lactose intolerance, talk to your pediatrician to get to know alternatives to cow’s milk.
Do You Know: You can’t give sugar or salt to your baby till one year of age? Get to know why here.
