Cow’s milk and children

Alternative Names:

Milk and children

Information:

Question:
Is cow's milk safe for children?

Answer:
There is no conclusive evidence that cow's milk is unsafe for children. However, cow's milk is not recommended for infants under less than 1 year old because the milk contains too much salt and protein. Many baby formulas are based on cow's milk that has been altered to contain similar proportions and amounts of carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamins, and minerals as similar to human breast milk. Iron is added to offset slight bleeding caused by bovine lactalbumin, a substance found in cow's milk. Many infant formulas are fortified with iron to promote growth and development and to prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Review Date: 1/21/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial. (1/21/02). Previous review: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director; RxRemedy. (10/1/1999).

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