Recommended Milk Intake for 12-Month-Olds
A 12-month-old should drink no more than 16-17 ounces (approximately 500 mL) of whole cow's milk per day. 1
Type of Milk to Offer
Whole cow's milk is appropriate for most 12-month-olds until age 2 years, after which transition to fat-free milk is recommended to optimize nutrient intake while avoiding excess saturated fat. 1
Continued breastfeeding beyond 12 months remains nutritionally superior to cow's milk and should be encouraged when possible. 1
For toddlers with a family history of obesity, heart disease, or high cholesterol, discuss transitioning to reduced-fat milk (2% to fat-free) with your pediatric provider after 12 months. 1
Why This Limit Matters
The 16-17 ounce maximum is critical for several reasons:
Excessive milk intake (>24 oz/day) is a known risk factor for iron-deficiency anemia in young children, as cow's milk is a poor iron source and can displace iron-rich foods from the diet. 2
High milk consumption can limit dietary diversity and reduce intake of other nutrient-dense foods necessary for balanced nutrition. 3
High protein intake from excessive milk consumption early in life increases the risk of later overweight and obesity. 3, 4
Practical Feeding Structure
Offer milk as part of 3-4 meals and 1-2 snacks per day, spaced every 90-120 minutes, with emphasis on nutrient-dense foods from all food groups. 1
Do not allow toddlers to carry milk in bottles or sippy cups throughout the day, as continuous sipping increases total intake, displaces solid foods, and raises risk of dental caries and constipation. 1
Avoid giving milk from a bottle at bedtime, as this habit increases nightly consumption, promotes dental caries, and can exacerbate constipation by reducing fiber-rich food intake. 1
Essential Complementary Nutrition
To ensure adequate nutrition while limiting milk intake:
Provide iron-rich foods or iron-fortified foods daily, as iron from cow's milk has poor bioavailability. 1
Limit 100% fruit juice to a maximum of 4-6 ounces per day. 1
Offer dietary fiber with a goal of 14 g per 1000 kcal consumed. 1
Consider vitamin D supplementation (400 IU/day), as vitamin D deficiency risk remains high even with adequate milk intake. 1
Avoid added sugars, high-sodium foods, and caffeine. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not exceed 500 mL (16-17 oz) daily, even if the child prefers milk over solid foods—this is when iron deficiency and dietary imbalance occur. 2, 3, 4
Do not introduce cow's milk before 12 months of age, as this is associated with increased risk of iron-deficiency anemia. 2
Do not rely on milk as the primary calorie source; solid foods should provide the majority of nutrition at this age. 1