MISSING INGREDIENTS in Alternative Milk Beverages

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a statement warning that inadequate vitamins and minerals in alternative milk beverages place babies and toddlers at risk of severe nutritional deficiencies.

• Milk alternatives should never be given to a child under the age of 1 year
• Protein is the missing ingredient in such alternatives as rice- and almond-drinks (i.e., 1-2 gm protein vs. milk's 8 gm) Example: Rice Dream
• Cow's milk, yogurt and cheese should be the major sources of calcium in a child's diet
• Unfortified milk alternatives also put young children at risk for Rickets (vitamin D deficiency)
• Nutrition takes time to show deficiency, so discuss what your child is drinking with your Pediatrician.