Is It Safe To Switch To Soy Milk For Toddlers?

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Soy milk, as the name suggests, is derived from soybeans. If you are considering introducing your little one to this plant-based milk, the benefits of soy milk for toddlers should first be considered.

Soy milk is a nutritious and vegan alternative to cow’s milk. It is high in protein and can benefit your child’s health (1). However, if you are thinking of feeding your children soy milk instead of cow’s milk, you should consider its nutritional value and possible side effects.

Scroll through this article to learn about the nutritional value of soy milk and if it is beneficial for toddlers.

Soy Milk Vs Cow Milk

There are many differences between soy milk and cow milk when it comes to nutritional content (1) (2).

It has been found that whole milk tends to contain around 61 calories, while soy milk contains just 38 calories per 100g serving. When it comes to fat content, cow milk has 3.2g of fat as opposed to 2.12g of fat in a serving of enriched soy milk.

In terms of protein content, whole milk and soy milk are nearly the same with 3.27g and 3.55g respectively.

Experts say

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) highlights that nearly 50% of infants with cow’s milk protein allergy may also have cross-reactivity with soy protein (9).

Soy Milk And Calcium Content

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Compared to cow milk, soy milk is a bit low on its calcium content (1) (2). Which is why, if you do decide to give your toddler soy milk, you must consider choosing a fortified form of soy milk that is enriched with important nutrients like folate, calcium, vitamin A, D and B.

It has also been found that soy milk contains certain compounds known as phytates, which tend to decrease calcium absorption – so you’ll need to make sure your toddler consumes more calcium-rich foods if he’s been drinking soy milk (3). You can choose to introduce your toddler to foods like yogurt, cheese, canned salmon and orange juice fortified with calcium (4).

Is Soy Milk Good For Toddlers?

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Consumption of non-fortified soy milk as opposed to cow milk could create a deficiency of calcium in the toddler. However, growing children need calcium for the proper growth and development of bones, teeth, hormones, muscles, and even the central nervous system. In such cases, you may choose to switch to soy milk that has been fortified with calcium and other important vitamins (5).

In general, soy milk can turn out to be an impressive alternative milk option for children who are intolerant to cow’s milk. However, if your toddler has milk allergy, they may also experience allergies when given soy-based foods, including soy milk.

In such cases, it is best to seek a pediatrician’s advice before turning to soy milk for toddlers.

Quick tip

Read the package label carefully and look for “no added sugar” options. Store-bought milk alternatives, such as soy milk, may have added sugar.

The Side Effects Of Soy Milk For Toddlers

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It is also important to note the various health concerns that arise as a result of consumption of soy milk.

• Soy milk is often used as a substitute for cow’s milk, but many a time, soy milk may also trigger severe allergic reactions. Consumption of soy milk could cause itching, skin rashes, abdominal pain etc (6).

• Soy milk has phytates which hinders the absorption of a few nutrients such as iron, zinc and phosphorus. This may cause a few nutritional deficiencies if the meals are not properly balanced (7).

Quick fact

Individuals with hypothyroidism should avoid excessive ingestion of soy products (10). A case study reports goiter and overt hypothyroidism in an iodine-deficient toddler on a soy-based diet (11).

Infographic: Side Effects And Contraindications Related To Soy Milk

Soy milk is a preferred alternative for toddlers who are lactose intolerant or whose parents wish to opt for vegan milk sources. Although soy milk is high in nutrition and is easily digestible, there are some contradictions to its usage. This infographic highlights the side effects of soy milk and provides instances where it might not be a suitable milk alternative.

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

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Dr. Neema ShresthaMD

Dr. Neema Shrestha is a pediatrician with a special interest in the field of neonatology. She has an overall experience of five years working in the field. Currently working in Kathmandu, Nepal, she completed her MBBS from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal in 2008, Diploma in Child Health from D.

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Jessica AlbertBE

Jessica Albert is a passionate writer who seeks to connect with her readers through wit and charm. Her work aims to invoke curiosity and keep the readers engaged through and through. She has two years of experience working with magazines and e-commerce establishments as a content marketer and editor.

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Swati PatwalM.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA

Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children.

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Vidya TadapatriMSc (Biotechnology)

Vidya did her post-graduation in Biotechnology from Osmania University, Hyderabad. Her interest in scientific research and writing made her pursue a career in writing, in which she now has over five years of experience. She has done certified biotechnology-related training programs under renowned organizations such as Centre For Cellular & Molecular Biology and Department of Biotechnology.

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