Also, limit the amount of milk according to the needs of the child based on their age. Children aged 2-3 years should drink about 480 ml or 2 glasses of milk per day, children aged 4-8 years about 600 ml or 2-3 glasses per day, and children aged 9 years and over about 720 ml or 3 glasses per day.
- Iron deficiency or anemia.
Growth milk that is not enriched with iron can cause children to lack iron or anemia. Iron is a mineral that is important for the formation of hemoglobin, which is a substance that is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
If you lack iron, children can experience symptoms such as weakness, pale, easily sick, and loss of appetite.
To prevent anemia, choose growth milk that contains enough iron. In addition, give children other sources of iron, such as meat, eggs, green vegetables, and nuts.
- Dental development disorders.
Growth milk that contains added sugar can cause children's teeth to decay or cavities. Sugar that sticks to the teeth can be a source of food for bacteria that cause tooth decay.
In addition, drinking too much milk can also change the shape of the jaw and teeth of children, especially if children still use a milk bottle.
To maintain the health of children's teeth, choose growth milk that does not contain added sugar and limit the administration of milk only at certain times, such as at breakfast and before bed. Also, teach children to clean their teeth after drinking milk and regularly check their teeth to the dentist.
Therefore, parents need to be careful in choosing and giving growth milk to children. Don't be tempted by ads or claims that are unclear.
Consult with a pediatrician or nutritionist to find out the type, dosage, and frequency of growth milk that is appropriate for the needs and conditions of the child. Remember, growth milk is not a substitute for the main food, but only as a complement to the nutrition for children.*