American Academy of Pediatrics warns parents to stay away from "toddler milk"

BOSTON – The nation's leading group of pediatricians is warning parents to stay away from "toddler milk."

Powdered drink mixes and formulas can be found on store shelves which are marketed for older infants and children up to three. They may be labeled as "transitional formulas," "weaning formulas" or "follow-up formulas," but the American Academy of Pediatrics says not only are they unnecessary, but they're also not regulated like standard infant formula and could be unhealthy for young children.

Many contain added sweeteners and higher levels of sodium compared to cow's milk. 

 And while some parents may be under the impression that these drinks fill a nutritional void that kids can't get from other sources, that's just not true. 

If you have concerns about your child's diet or nutritional intake, consult your pediatrician before turning to so-called "toddler milk". 

In:
• Health

Mallika Marshall, MD

Mallika Marshall, MD is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and physician who has served as the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. A practicing physician Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Dr. Marshall serves on staff at Harvard Medical School and practices at Massachusetts General Hospital at the MGH Chelsea Urgent Care and the MGH Revere Health Center, where she is currently working on the frontlines caring for patients with COVID-19. She is also a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications (HHP), the publishing division of Harvard Medical School.

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