Dairy During Pregnancy
Moms who include dairy in their diet every day can significantly impact a child’s brain development, bone strength, and immune system before they even take their first steps.
During pregnancy, the body needs essential nutrients like iron, calcium, protein, Vitamin D and iodine. These nutrients are not only vital for the baby’s growth and development, they also help maintain mom’s energy and her immune system.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, dairy provides 7 of the 14 nutrients important for early brain development.
Iodine during Pregnancy
There is emerging concern about adequate iodine intake during pregnancy. Women who don’t normally consume dairy are not getting enough iodine in their diet which is important for the production of breast milk and fetal brain development. One serving of low-fat milk or yogurt provides over fifty percent of the daily requirement of iodine for pregnant women.
Including dairy as part of a balanced diet will help ensure moms get vital nutrients for their health and the baby’s development.
Dairy for Infants and Toddlers
Dairy continues to nourish babies after birth. From birth to age two is when a child’s brain begins to grow and develop and when foundations for lifelong health begin. A simple step like including dairy in your child’s diet every day supports growth and development, immunity and brain and bone health.
When to Introduce Dairy
- 6 – 12 Months
- Dietary guidelines recommend introducing dairy in small amounts to help babies develop a taste for healthy foods. This can include yogurt, cheese, and cottage cheese.
- 12 Months
- Whole milk can be added to baby’s diet.
- 2 Years
- At two years a variety of dairy foods like cheese cubes, cheese sticks, yogurt parfaits and smoothies can be introduced.
Resources
See below for a variety of health resources focused on dairy’s role in pregnancy and the first two years of life for infants and toddlers.
