What are the potential drawbacks of drinking plant milk?
The NHS says babies under 1 should not have plant drinks such as oat or almond as a milk, and children under 5 should not have rice drinks because of their arsenic levels. For older children and adults the NHS points to unsweetened, calcium-fortified versions.
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In this article
Is plant milk safe for babies?
The NHS says babies under 1 should not have drinks called “milk” such as rice, oat or almond drinks. From age 1, it says you can give unsweetened calcium-fortified milk alternatives such as soya, almond and oat drinks as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Which plant milk should young children avoid?
The NHS says toddlers and young children under 5 should not have rice drinks because of the arsenic they contain. If a child has a milk allergy or intolerance, it advises talking to a health visitor or GP before introducing milk alternatives.
What should I check on the label?
- Unsweetened. The NHS names unsweetened versions, and advises lower-sugar choices in general.
- Calcium-fortified. The NHS describes non-dairy, vegan-friendly products with added calcium as the ones that can help with calcium intake.
Do plant milks have less protein than dairy?
The NHS pages we read do not compare protein or iodine in plant drinks, so we do not make that claim. Check the nutrition label of the drink you buy.
What about phytoestrogens or additives?
We found no NHS statement on either point, so we do not state a risk. Ask a doctor or dietitian if you have a health condition or allergy.
People also ask
What are the disadvantages of plant-based milk?
Per the NHS: not as a milk for babies under 1, no rice drinks for children under 5 (arsenic), and choose unsweetened, calcium-fortified types.
Can toddlers drink oat milk?
The NHS says from age 1 you can give unsweetened calcium-fortified soya, almond and oat drinks as part of a balanced diet.
Why is rice milk not recommended for young children?
The NHS says children under 5 should not have rice drinks because of the levels of arsenic they contain.
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