All about milk alternatives

All milk substitutes are not created equal in terms of nutrition value. Pediatrician Tanya Remer Altmann, MD, talks about the options for kids with dairy allergies, and how they stack up nutritionally compared with cow's milk.

Transcript

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If you choose a cow's milk alternative for your child, double check labels carefully. Some brands fortify their products with levels of calcium

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and vitamin D that are comparable to cow's milk. [MUSIC PLAYING]

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I'm Dr. Altmann. Although cow's milk is an important part of a nutritious diet, some kids can't drink it because they're allergic to it.

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Milk is an important, great source of calcium, protein, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients

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kids don't get enough of. Parents often ask me about milk substitutes. There are many, including soy milk and almond milk.

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But when you choose an alternative milk, make sure you know what you're getting, as they all lack nutrition compared to cow's milk.

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Here's how they stack up. A cup of skim milk or low fat cow's milk has up to 10 grams of protein.

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Plain soy milk has almost as much protein, 7 grams. A cup of plain almond milk has only 1 gram of protein,

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and a cup of coconut milk has no protein. If you choose a cow's milk alternative for your child, double check labels carefully.

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Some brands fortify their products with levels of calcium and vitamin D that are comparable to cow's milk, but others come up short.

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You may also want to work with a dietician to ensure your growing child gets other sources of protein, calcium, and vitamin D she needs for her healthy growth

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and development. I'm Dr. Altmann. For more ways to nourish your family's health, check out all our smart tips right here.