Can Babies Drink Almond Milk?
As parents explore healthy choices for their growing babies, many look at plant-based drinks like almond milk. The popularity of these milk alternatives has soared, raising questions about their safety and nutrition for infants.
Understanding what babies need—especially when it comes to breast milk and exclusive breastfeeding—is important before considering any new drink. With so many options in stores, parents may find it hard to know if almond milk fits into a baby’s diet or if breast milk and formula should remain the focus during the first year.
Almond Milk for Babies
Most experts agree that babies under the age of one should not drink almond milk. Instead, parents should give infants breast milk or infant formula, which provide the right types and amounts of nutrients for healthy growth. Breast milk and formula supply important nutrients, such as protein and healthy fat, that developing babies need.
After the first birthday, toddlers can sometimes have almond milk, but there are important points to remember. Almond milk contains much less protein than whole cow’s milk. For example:
| Milk Type | Protein (per cup) | Calories (per cup) | Fat (per cup) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Cow’s Milk | 8 grams | 150 | 8 grams |
| Almond Milk | 1 gram | 30-60 | 2-3 grams |
Toddlers who are not allergic to tree nuts and do not have a lactose problem may sometimes drink almond milk. However, parents should not use almond milk to fully replace whole cow’s milk, which experts usually recommend for children over one year old. Whole cow’s milk contains more protein, fat, and important nutrients needed for growth.
When choosing almond milk for a toddler, parents should pick one that is fortified with calcium and vitamins. Parents should also check for added sugar and avoid sweetened versions when possible.
Why Babies Should Not Drink Almond Milk
Almond milk does not provide enough protein or calories for infants, especially compared to breast milk or formula. Babies need certain nutrients, like healthy fats and a variety of vitamins and minerals, to grow properly. Almond milk, even if unsweetened, lacks the nutrition babies need during their first year.
Some almond milk products contain added sugar or other extras that are not healthy for babies. For those with a milk allergy, pediatricians usually recommend special formulas—not plant milk. Introducing almond milk too early may put babies at risk for malnutrition. Avoid giving babies raw milk or milk alternatives unless a doctor suggests it.
Milk Alternatives
For babies under one year old, infant formula is the only recommended substitute for breast milk. Parents should not use plant-based milk like soy, oat, and almond milk as primary drinks until after a baby’s first birthday.
Once a child turns one, parents can introduce some plant-based milks, but they should check if these are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients support strong bones and healthy growth.
Parents should avoid alternative drinks with added sugars, which are common in many commercial plant-based options. Choosing unsweetened varieties helps reduce unnecessary sugar intake. Families should also keep offering a range of iron-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains after starting milk alternatives to make sure children receive enough fiber and essential vitamins like A and C.
If a Baby Is Accidentally Given Almond Milk
If a baby accidentally drinks almond milk, most will not have serious problems unless they have a nut allergy. Watch for any symptoms such as swelling, rash, trouble breathing, or vomiting, as these may signal an allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms appear.
Stop giving the almond milk as soon as the mistake is noticed. Families with a history of obesity, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, or overweight may also want to be extra cautious, as almond milk does not provide the nutrients needed for healthy infant development. Contact a pediatrician for advice, especially if a large amount is consumed.
FAQs
What Other Drinks Can Replace Milk for Young Children?
Toddlers can have certain milk alternatives if cow’s milk is not an option or if the family follows a different diet. Some acceptable choices include soy milk, full-fat oat milk, and high-fat pea milk. When choosing a milk alternative, parents should pick options that have enough fat, as fat helps with brain development in young children.
Parents should always compare the nutritional value of milk alternatives to cow’s milk by checking the labels for protein, fat, calcium, and vitamin D content. Families looking to follow the Dietary Guidelines for Americans should include a mix of foods to meet children’s dietary needs, even if they use a milk substitute.
How Much Dairy or Nondairy Milk Does a Toddler Need Daily?
Most toddlers need about 16 ounces of milk or its alternative daily, which equals two cups. Drinking more than this can lead to a child feeling full and missing out on other healthy foods that are part of a balanced diet. Parents should remember that beverages like 100% fruit juice and water also play a role in keeping children hydrated, but milk and alternatives offer additional nutrients needed for healthy growth.
Is It Necessary for Young Children to Have Milk?
Not every toddler must drink milk each day. As long as parents provide foods that supply enough calcium, vitamin D, fat, and other important nutrients, their child can stay healthy without daily servings of milk or milk alternatives.
Pediatricians and resources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourage parents to consider a child’s complete diet. Parents can monitor their child’s growth, including body mass index, and ensure food preferences do not limit key nutrients to follow good dietary guidelines even without milk as a staple.
