When Should Kids Switch To Nonfat Milk? (for Parents)

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[Skip to Content] When Should Kids Switch to Nonfat Milk? Medically reviewed by: Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MDThis link opens in a new tab
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I know that at some point kids should drink nonfat milk as part of a low-fat diet. But what's the right age to switch kids from whole milk to nonfat milk? – Sheila

Breast milk is the food of choice for at least the first year or beyond. Cow's milk should be avoided until after kids reach their first birthday.

Babies and toddlers need fat in their diets for a variety of reasons, including healthy brain development. So it's usually recommended that kids 1 to 2 years old drink whole milk. Then, if their growth is steady, it's safe to switch to low-fat or nonfat (skim) milk.

Note: Kids at risk of becoming overweight can be switched to lower-fat milk before turning 2.

Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your child's growth or nutritional needs.

Medically reviewed by: Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MDThis link opens in a new tab Date reviewed: August 2018

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