Can Babies Have Soy Milk?
Soy-based formula is a common alternative to dairy-based formulas but is not the same thing as soy milk. Soy formula is altered to meet the nutritional needs of infants. Soy milk may present a good alternative to cow's milk for certain children. Before giving your child a soy-based product, ensure that it is appropriate for your family's needs.
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Types
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Both soy milk and soy formula are available for babies. The KidsHealth website states that children under 1 year old should not drink milk, because they need the nutrients from formula or breastfeeding. For children over a year old, soy milk is a safe option if it is whole milk and fortified with vitamins A and D as well as calcium, according to pediatrician Jatinder Bhatia, on the Babycenter website.
Benefits
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According to the American Academy of Pediatrics report, "Soy Protein-Based Formulas," soy is a safe option for babies. Soy milk and soy formula benefit parents who are raising a vegetarian child, babies who are lactose intolerant and babies who are allergic to cow milk proteins.
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Considerations
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Soy-based formula "has no advantage over cow milk protein-based formula as a supplement for the breastfed infant," states the AAP report. No evidence exists that soy reduces incidences of colic or that it has any benefits for healthy babies. Premature babies gain less weight and grow slower when fed soy-based formula than babies given dairy formula.
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References
- Photo Credit Container of milk. Plastic milk bottle image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com
