The process of transitioning an infant or young child from formula feeding to the consumption of cow’s milk is a significant dietary change. It typically occurs around the age of one year, when a child’s digestive system is more mature and capable of handling the proteins and lactose present in cow’s milk. This shift involves gradually introducing whole milk while reducing the amount of formula offered, monitoring the child for any signs of intolerance or allergic reaction.
This transition is important because cow’s milk provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, crucial for bone development. Furthermore, it encourages the child to adapt to a broader range of food sources, laying the foundation for a more diverse and balanced diet. Historically, the introduction of cow’s milk marked a milestone in infant feeding practices, reflecting advancements in nutritional understanding and food availability.