Most young children should not drink herbal milk, according to new guidelines



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Most children under 5 should avoid drinking herbal milk, including almond, rice and oatmeal blends, according to the new health guidelines published by four of the world's largest health organizations. health of the country.

Herbal milks, with the exception of enriched soymilk, do not contain the essential nutrients contained in cow's milk necessary for the early development of the child and are not recommended as an integral replacement for regular milk, said experts in the guidelines of Health Eating Research.

Breast milk, infant formula, water and plain milk were all part of the age-based recommendations of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, of the American Academy of Pediatric dentists, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association.

"Even when these milks contain extra nutrients, our body may not absorb them as much as regular milk," the new guidelines say.

The experts emphasized the importance of getting the right amount of essential nutrients in the milk, such as protein, calcium and vitamin D, essential for healthy growth and development.

Breast milk, infant formula, water and plain milk were all part of the age-based recommendations for children in the new health guidelines. (Photo of Mayall / ullstein bild via Getty Images)

The guidelines also state that unsweetened, non-dairy, fortified milk may be a good choice if the child is allergic to dairy products, lactose intolerant or "is in a family that does not consume dairy products", but advised parents to consult a doctor first. .

Other drinks to avoid include flavored milks such as chocolate and strawberry, caffeinated beverages, low-calorie drinks and sugary drinks such as fruit drinks, soft drinks and sports drinks, as directed.

According to experts, infants only need breast milk or infant formula to have enough fluids and proper nutrition. Babies aged 6 to 12 months should still rely on breast milk or formula to meet most of their daily needs. Once solid foods are introduced, parents were advised to try adding a few sips of water during meals.

Children between 12 and 24 months of age should drink between one and four cups of water a day and can also get acquainted with simple, pasteurized whole milk. The recommended amount is two to three cups a day, as directed. At this age, parents should limit fruit juice to 100%.

Children aged 2 to 3 should also drink one to four cups of water a day and switch to plain, pasteurized, non-fat (skim) or low-fat (1%) milk as directed. They should also limit fruit juice to 100%.

"From the moment children are born in these early years, beverages are an important source of calories and nutrients and can have a significant impact on long-term health," said Richard Besser, President and Chief Executive Officer. the direction of Robert Wood Johnson. Foundation, which funded the research guidelines on healthy eating.

Children aged 4 to 5 years should drink up to five cups of water a day, the amount needed varying depending on their physical activity, weather conditions and the amount of fluid that they take other drinks or foods. Children of this age should also drink up to 2.5 cups a day of plain, pasteurized, nonfat (skim) or low fat (1%) milk, according to experts.

This story has been reported in Cincinnati.

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