Toddler Nutrition Truth: Why Plant-Based Milks Fall Short - AI Podcast

Story at-a-glance

• Plant-based milks significantly reduce essential nutrients in toddlers’ diets, even when fortified; research shows calcium, vitamin B2 and B12 levels drop by around 50% when replacing cow's milk in toddlers' diets
• Most pediatric guidelines strongly advise against using plant-based beverages as milk replacements for children under 2 years old due to nutritional inadequacy and other health risks
• Soy milk contains phytoestrogens that alter DNA expression and antinutrients that reduce protein absorption, making it particularly concerning for developing children
• Plant-based milks are ultraprocessed foods that contain additives like gums and emulsifiers, whereas grass fed cow's milk provides unique nutrients linked to reduced disease risks
• Raw, grass fed milk offers living enzymes, beneficial bacteria and immune-supporting compounds that ultraprocessed plant drinks do not provide for growing toddlers