Struggles with Milk Intake: Pediatric Tips for Parents

Not drinking milk?

Dear Dr.
Lin,
Happy New Year! My daughter has only been drinking 60cc of milk since she was brought home from the obstetrics and gynecology department.
She really dislikes milk and refuses to drink it from a bottle, so I have to feed her with a spoon, one spoonful at a time.
She is now one year and four months old and consumes 180cc of milk three times a day.
I wonder if you have encountered similar cases.
According to Freud's theory, a child's unmet sucking needs can have implications for their future.
What are your thoughts on this? She is now walking very well, and during feeding, one of us has to play with her while the other feeds her from behind, which is quite challenging.
Do you have any better suggestions for raising a child like this?
Concerned Dad
0204 1832

Worried Dad, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/04

Dr. Lin Wenxian reply Pediatrics

Dear Concerned Father,
Happy New Year! It sounds like you and your partner are truly remarkable and are working very hard.
Feeding a child often requires the effort of both parents.
Indeed, correcting a child's eating habits can sometimes be quite challenging for parents, as there are significant habitual factors involved.
Here are some general suggestions you might try:
Consider offering foods that are visually appealing to children, focusing on the color, shape, and taste of the food.
For example, you can shape food into circles or squares, allowing your child to dip it into nutritious sauces or spread jam (some children enjoy the action of spreading and dipping).
However, be cautious not to cultivate a preference for overly salty or sweet foods.
For a child over one year old, about two servings of milk per day is sufficient, and the other meals can be similar to what adults eat.
You might want to enhance the dining atmosphere by having meals with other children (as kids often find others' food more appealing) or dining together as a family (even holding your child on your lap while eating).
Providing encouraging guidance and using interesting utensils can also help.
Additionally, avoid having the television on or other distracting toys during mealtime, and do not let food become a source of tension or pressure between you and your child.
It is best not to use food as a reward or bargaining tool (e.g., "If you finish this, you can have that") or to force feeding, as this can lead to aversions and counterproductive outcomes.
Developing healthy eating habits is complex and requires time and patience from parents.
Sucking is just one of many needs for a baby, and it seems your child does not have a strong need for it.
If other needs are met with love and care, I believe your child will grow up healthy and happy.
Dear Concerned Father,
Happy New Year! Based on your description, it seems that your daughter's feeding issues have been quite stressful for you.
It sounds like your child may not be particularly focused on satisfying her taste preferences.

When assessing a child's development, we primarily look at growth and neurological development.
I wonder how much your child weighs? At this age, the standard weight should be at least 8-10 kg.
From what you described, your child is already walking very well, indicating that her neurological development is progressing satisfactorily, which shows that your efforts are yielding results.
We do not recommend using forceful methods to feed children who are resistant to food, as this can create tension in the parent-child relationship.
Your daughter is now 1 year and 4 months old, and her diet should not primarily consist of milk.
Most of the time, she can eat the same foods as adults.
Many foods can provide the nutrients that milk offers, and even more.
If she is willing to try other foods, that is perfectly fine.
A daily intake of 200-400 cc of milk is sufficient.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to discuss them with us.

Wishing you good health and all the best from the Pediatric Department of Tainan Hospital!

Reply Date: 2005/02/04

More Info

Struggling with a child's milk intake can be a common concern for many parents. As highlighted in the scenario you provided, a one-year-four-month-old child is reluctant to drink milk, which can be frustrating for parents trying to ensure their child receives adequate nutrition. Here are some insights and strategies that may help address this issue.

Understanding Milk Intake in Toddlers
At around one year of age, children typically transition from a diet primarily consisting of breast milk or formula to a more varied diet that includes solid foods. While milk remains an important source of calcium and vitamin D, it is not the only source of these nutrients. Children at this age can obtain necessary nutrients from a variety of foods, including dairy products like yogurt and cheese, leafy greens, and fortified cereals.

Tips for Encouraging Milk Intake
1. Make Milk Fun: Sometimes, the way milk is presented can make a difference. Consider using colorful cups or fun straws to make drinking milk more appealing. You can also try flavored milk options, such as chocolate or strawberry, but be mindful of added sugars.

2. Incorporate Milk into Meals: If your child resists drinking milk directly, try incorporating it into meals. For example, you can use milk in smoothies, oatmeal, or pancakes. This way, your child still benefits from the nutrients without having to drink it straight.

3. Offer Alternatives: If your child is not fond of cow's milk, consider alternatives like yogurt or cheese, which can provide similar nutritional benefits. Additionally, fortified plant-based milks (such as almond or soy milk) can be offered, but ensure they are fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

4. Create a Routine: Establishing a consistent routine around mealtimes can help. Encourage your child to drink milk at specific times, such as with breakfast or as a snack. This can help normalize the behavior and make it a part of their daily routine.

5. Be Patient and Avoid Pressure: It’s important to avoid pressuring your child to drink milk, as this can create negative associations. Instead, offer it regularly without forcing it. Children often need time to adjust to new foods and drinks.

6. Model Behavior: Children learn by observing their parents. If they see you enjoying milk or dairy products, they may be more inclined to try it themselves.

7. Consult a Pediatrician: If your child continues to refuse milk and you are concerned about their nutritional intake, it may be beneficial to consult a pediatrician or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and assess whether your child is meeting their nutritional needs.

Addressing Concerns About Feeding Techniques
Regarding the concern about using a spoon to feed milk, while it may be necessary in some cases, it can also lead to a negative feeding experience. Encourage self-feeding and allow your child to explore drinking from a cup independently. This can foster a sense of autonomy and may help them become more interested in drinking milk.

The Psychological Aspect
You mentioned Freud's theory about the importance of sucking for a child's development. While this theory may not be directly applicable to every situation, it is true that feeding experiences can impact a child's relationship with food. Ensuring that mealtimes are positive and stress-free is crucial for fostering healthy eating habits.

Conclusion
In summary, while it can be challenging when a child refuses to drink milk, there are numerous strategies parents can employ to encourage milk intake and ensure their child receives adequate nutrition. By making milk fun, incorporating it into meals, and maintaining a positive feeding environment, parents can help their children develop healthy eating habits. If concerns persist, seeking professional guidance can provide additional support and reassurance.

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