Milk Types and Milk Consumption in Children

The issue of balance, from breast milk to plant-based milks

Goat's milk is the closest to human milk. However, this does not mean that goat's milk is exactly equivalent to human milk. The milks of other living beings differ depending on many factors such as the amount of fat they contain, their lactose content, the environment the animal is fed in, the grazing areas, and its feeding habits. Nothing is added to these milks later; the difference arises directly from their composition.

Some milks have a high lactose content, while others have a high fat content. In some milks, fat particles are small, while in others, they are larger. Therefore, it is not correct to say that "this one is absolutely the most beneficial" among goat's milk, buffalo milk, cow's milk, or even camel milk, which has gained attention recently. The real difference is that their nutritional values vary from each other.

In newborns, if breast milk is unavailable and cow's milk needs to be given, it is known that this milk should be diluted by half, or even by one-third in some cases. Because cow's milk is a fatty milk, children may experience gas, bloating, and diarrhea due to lactose intolerance; as well as fatty diarrhea and feeding problems due to excess fat.

Since goat's milk is the closest to breast milk, if breast milk is unavailable, this can be the preferred choice. Because the fat and lactose content in goat's milk is slightly lower, its absorption and tolerance are easier in most children. Therefore, if possible, breast milk, or if not, appropriately diluted cow's milk or goat's milk should be preferred.

Milk consumption in children is important for development due to its contents related to vitamin D, fats, carbohydrates, and growth hormone. Therefore, I am of the opinion that drinking milk during childhood is correct. Of course, the amount and frequency should be adjusted under the supervision of a pediatrician according to the child's age and needs.

I am one of those who believe that regular milk consumption by children until a certain age supports their growth, development, and protein needs.

In recent years, plant-based milks such as soy milk and oat milk have entered our lives. These products, which we were not very accustomed to in Turkey before, are sometimes preferred because they are thought to be healthier than animal milks. The preference for these milks by vegan and vegetarian individuals is a completely understandable and respectable approach.

However, for individuals who consume both animal and plant-based foods, i.e., omnivores, natural milk remains an important source of nutrition. Plant-based milks can be consumed for flavor or variety; however, balance is essential in the main diet, as in everything else.

The protein and some fatty acids in soy milk may be sufficient; however, its vitamin and mineral content is often industrially added later. In oat milk, protein is lower, and carbohydrate content is higher. These milks can complement deficiencies in specific dietary patterns; however, it may not always be possible to directly access the amino acids, vitamins, and many components related to the immune system contained in natural milk.

Therefore, milk should take its place as a good friend on the nutrition scale; without exaggeration, according to the child's needs and individual tolerance.