Complementary Feeding for Babies: Breast milk is considered very beneficial for new-borns. But the question arises: when should mother's milk be discontinued, and when should cow's milk be started? Let's explain.

When should cow's milk be given to babies?

What Is The Right Age To Start Cow's Milk For Babies? Breast milk is considered the most complete and natural food for a newborn baby, especially during the first six months of life. Breast milk contains all the essential nutrients a baby needs for proper physical and mental development. It also contains antibodies and enzymes that strengthen the baby's immune system. This is why both the World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend exclusive breast milk from birth until six months of age.

a well-balanced diet

Breast milk contains a perfectly balanced amount of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. It adapts to the baby's age and needs, a feat neither formula nor cow's milk can achieve. During the early months, a baby's digestion is weak, so breast milk is easily digested and doesn't add to the extra calorie burden.

Breast milk provides protection against diseases.

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

Additionally, breast milk is always clean, safe, and available at the right temperature. It requires no boiling, no sterilization of bottles or equipment. It also reduces the financial burden on the family, as there's no need to purchase formula or other supplies. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of obesity and malnutrition. Breast milk balances a child's metabolism and eating habits, preventing obesity later in life.

So, when should cow's milk be given?

Dr. Pawan Mandaviya, a pediatrician, shared a video on social media about this. He says, "Cow's milk should not be given to a child before the age of one." He explains that cow's milk is high in protein and minerals, which can put additional pressure on a newborn's undeveloped kidneys. In conditions like heat, fever, or diarrhea, this pressure can even lead to serious illness.

Additionally, cow's milk lacks sufficient iron, vitamin C, and several other essential nutrients that babies need during their early months. Cow's milk can also cause iron deficiency anemia in some children. The protein in cow's milk can damage the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to bloody stools.