Is your child refusing to drink milk? There's no need to panic. Learn about the sources of calcium your child can get, other than milk, and when to consult a doctor.

The child does not drink milk.

Child not drinking milk: You may have often noticed that many children simply don't like to drink milk. They throw tantrums. This causes parents to worry that their child might be deficient in calcium. Calcium is essential for strengthening children's bones and teeth. If your child refuses to drink milk, there's no need to worry. There are other foods that can provide a good amount of calcium.

Feed yogurt and cheese.

If your child refuses to drink milk, you can feed them yogurt or cheese. Many children prefer yogurt and cheese to milk. Both are good sources of calcium and beneficial for the body. Additionally, give your child green vegetables. Green leafy vegetables like spinach, fenugreek, and bathua are also rich in calcium. You can feed them to your child by mixing them into parathas, soups, or other dishes.

Ragi is also a good option

Ragi is a good source of calcium. You can make ragi porridge, cheela, or dosa and give it to your child. This is also considered good for young children. Almonds and chia seeds also contain calcium. These can be ground or chopped into small pieces and added to your child's food. Avoid giving whole nuts to young children, as they can cause choking hazards. Additionally, some soy products, such as tofu, are also considered good for calcium. If your child can eat them, they can be included in his or her diet.

Sunlight is also important.

Eating calcium alone isn't enough. The body also needs vitamin D to utilize calcium effectively. Therefore, let your child play in the morning sun for a while every day.

When to consult a doctor?

If your child hasn't been breastfeeding for a long time, isn't eating well, isn't gaining weight or height, or your doctor suspects a calcium deficiency, don't give them any supplements without consulting your doctor. Not drinking milk doesn't necessarily mean your child is deficient in calcium. A diet that includes yogurt, cheese, green vegetables, finger millet, and other foods can provide adequate calcium. The most important thing is that your child's food is healthy and clean, meaning avoid eating outside food.