Which milk should be given to children?

I chose to write on this topic today because of umpteen requests from mothers to know 'which is the most appropriate milk for their babies'. With TV channels flashing about adulteration of packet milk and reports of worms detected in formula milk, parents are now more interested in knowing 'which is safe milk' rather than questions like 'how much milk is needed?', etc.

Until one year of age, the best milk for the baby is breast milk. No doubt about that. If there is no sufficient breast milk, the alternative is formula milk appropriate for age. I am not specific about brands. You can change brands if you feel your baby has been uncomfortable with a particular brand. Why not cow' milk? The protein in cow's milk is not suitable for growth of babies less than one year. In babies of this age, cow's milk can bring about some changes in the intestine which prevent proper absorption of iron. Buffalo milk is not suitable for small infants.

In children above one year of age, continue breast feeding as much as possible, but start cow's milk also. The best cow's milk is from a cow which you rear at home or in your farm and is given organic fodder. It must be maintained well and no hormonal injections must be given. This milk is not pasteurized. Hence you must boil it for at least 5 to 8 minutes. Repeated boiling is not recommended because it can lead to loss of nutrients. This is whole milk. It has 5 to 7 percent of fat and can be given until 2 years of age. Good whole cow milk suppliers can be there in your areas and you can pick up from them.

Tetra pack milk can be used during travel. The milk need not be boiled unless the packet is opened and has to be stored.

Packet milk which is deliverable at home can be used. Full cream milk is what is recommended until 2 years of age. There is no need to dilute milk. After 2 years of age skimmed milk with 1 to 2 percent fat is recommended. After one year of age, even buffalo milk can be given to children but preference if for cow's milk. Some children may have allergy to cow's milk and may manifest with diarrhea, bloating of abdomen, skin rashes and abdominal pain. In such children, cow's milk must be avoid for a few months or even years.