How Do You Know Which to Give: Milk or Water?
Most likely, your pediatrician has explained to you the significance of adding whole milk in your child’s daily diet. For growing children, this high-fat, high-protein beverage offers excellent nourishment.
For children aged one to two, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) [3] suggests two to three cups of whole milk per day, and for children aged two to five, two to two and a half cups. Although drinking more milk has many advantages, it is not always preferable.
According to Shea, consuming too much milk can make children sated, replace other minerals and foods, and result in an iron deficit. In a toddler’s diet [4], water should ideally be the primary source of fluids. To avoid making them feel excessively full for their next meal, I advise feeding milk with meals rather than in between. Then offer unrestricted water all day long.