What Is The Right Age To Start Cow’s Milk For Babies: Mother’s milk is considered the most complete and natural diet for a newborn baby, especially in the first six months of life. Mother’s milk contains all the essential nutrients which the child needs for proper physical and mental development. It also contains antibodies and enzymes, which strengthen the child’s immune system. This is the reason why both the World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend giving only mother’s milk from birth to six months.

completely balanced diet

The amount of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals in mother’s milk is perfectly balanced. This milk adapts itself according to the age and needs of the child, which is possible neither in formula milk nor in cow’s milk. In the initial months, the child’s digestion is weak, in such a situation mother’s milk is easily digested and does not burden with extra calories.

Mother’s milk protects against diseases

The first milk released after delivery, called colostrum, is no less than the first vaccine for the baby. This milk protects the child from diseases like diarrhea, pneumonia and ear infection. Research shows that children who are completely breastfed have less risk of allergies, asthma and many serious diseases in the future. The study has also revealed that children who drink mother’s milk have better brain development and their IQ level is found to be slightly higher. That means breastfeeding is important not only for the development of the body but also for the development of the brain.

Along with this, mother’s milk is always clean, safe and available at the right temperature. It neither requires boiling nor sterilizing bottles or equipment. This also does not put a financial burden on the family, because there is no need to buy formula milk and other items. The risk of obesity and malnutrition has been seen to be less in breastfed children. Mother’s milk balances the metabolism and eating habits of the child, which prevents the problem of obesity in the future.

So when should cow’s milk be given?

Pediatrician Dr. Pawan Mandaviya had shared a video regarding this on social media. According to him, “Cow’s milk should not be given to a child before one year.” They say that cow’s milk has a very high amount of protein and minerals, which can put additional pressure on the not fully developed kidneys of the newborn baby. In conditions like heat, fever or diarrhea, this pressure can also cause serious illness.

Apart from this, cow’s milk does not contain adequate amounts of iron, vitamin C and many other essential nutrients, which the baby needs very much in the initial months. Cow’s milk can also cause iron deficiency anemia in some children. Actually, the protein present in cow’s milk can damage the inner lining of the stomach and intestines, which can cause bleeding with stool.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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