What is the recommended dietary approach for infants under 12 months regarding whole milk?

The recommended dietary approach for infants under 12 months is to wait until they are at least 12 months old before introducing whole milk. This guideline is in place because infants have unique nutritional requirements during their first year of life that are best met through breast milk or iron-fortified formula. Whole milk lacks essential nutrients such as iron, Vitamin E, and essential fatty acids that are crucial for an infant’s growth and development. Additionally, whole milk can be hard for infants to digest and may increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and allergies.

Starting whole milk too early can potentially lead to nutrient deficiencies and increase the risk of developing anemia due to the low iron content. Therefore, health authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend exclusively breastfeeding or using formula during the first year and transitioning to whole milk afterward.