Blog

I was asked a great question recently by a mom that I wanted to share with all of you because it brings up an important nutrition issue surrounding toddlers. “My toddler is a milk lover, but I am concerned he may be drinking too much. Am I wrong, or is there such thing as too much milk?”

First of all, it is a good thing that toddlers drink milk. Some parents have a very difficult time convincing their toddlers to drink milk! Milk is rich in calcium and fortified with vitamin D, both of which are vital nutrients to growing strong bones. Moms, however, know best in most cases, including this one. You can have too much of a good thing, even milk. Milk does a body good, but over consumption can lead to iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia.

Milk is very low in iron. Eight ounces supplies only 1% of the recommended daily intake of iron. Milk also contains high amounts of calcium, casein (the protein in milk), and phosphorus all of which interrupt iron absorption. Iron is a mineral important for carrying oxygen in the blood. More than 24oz/day (3 cups) of milk can cause “milk anemia,” a condition leading to poor growth, behavioral, and sometimes irreversible learning problems. Some research indicates anywhere from 13 to 24 ounces of milk a day can increase risk for iron deficiency. Frequent milk drinking throughout the day also correlates with tooth decay and may displace a more balanced diet of healthy foods when children fill up on milk.

Though iron deficiency in infancy has greatly decreased in the U.S. due to recommendations for breastfeeding, iron fortified formula and iron fortified weaning cereals, up to 7% of toddlers are at risk for iron deficiency for several reasons. By one year of age, the iron stores from infancy are depleted, and toddlers rely on diet alone to supply the necessary iron. Also, most toddlers have transitioned to cow milk after their first birthday and are no longer eating iron fortified foods.

I suggest allowing toddlers two cups (16 ounces) of milk per day. This amount supplies a healthy amount of calcium without risking low iron absorption. In addition, it allows room in your toddlers’ daily diet for a supply of a variety of nutritious foods and iron-rich sources such as meats, poultry, fish, beans, dried fruits, and vegetables.

If your toddler is between one-two years old, remember to serve full fat milk. Toddlers over two years may have skim, 1% or 2% milk. Young children need fat to supply growing brains and bodies! If your children are still thirsty after exhausting their milk allotment for the day, try serving chilled water flavored with fresh fruit slices. This is a refreshing beverage in hot weather, easy, and inexpensive!