Everyone of all ages may have drunk it. But can you give soya milk to the baby?
Seen from the name, of course soya milk made from soya beans (soybean) or soybeans. In one cup (240 ml) of unsweetened soy milk contains at least 7 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, 4 grams of carbohydrates, and 80-100 calories.
Soya milk is a source of protein, potassium, vitamin A, and isoflavones. Because it is made from plants, this milk is free of cholesterol and low in saturated fat.
Allowed or not?
Although nutritious, this milk can not be drunk by everyone, for example in infants. Health experts advise against giving soya milk for babies, especially if baby is born premature or less than six months old. Why? Because infants aged 1-6 months should be given breast milk (breast milk). Breast milk has all the nutrients it needs to grow and health.
Providing soy milk for babies under six months is also feared will increase the risk of soy allergic reactions in the body. Not to mention the content of additional ingredients in soya milk that is considered not good for babies, such as sugar. If regular milk formula contains a type of lactose sugar, soya milk usually contains glucose. This glucose can damage the teeth of infants and young children.
In addition, there are also concerns if giving soya milk to babies can affect the development of their reproductive organs. Soy contains natural phytoestrogen compounds. Well, the chemical structure of phytoestrogens is similar to a female sex hormone named estrogen. It is feared that it can cause premature puberty and thyroid problems. In addition, consuming phytoestrogens in large quantities are also thought to make the weight of baby person tend to be low.
The rules of giving soya milk to children
However, soya milk may be given as an alternative if the child or baby is allergic to lactose or formula milk made from cow's milk. Of course, after discussing it first with your pediatrician.
If you want to buy soya milk for baby, choose made from whole soybean (whole). Not a low-fat (low-fat) or nonfat (nonfat). For children under 2 years, fat is very important for brain development. Make sure also if the soya milk is fortified with vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium.
If your baby drinks soya milk, it is advisable to increase calcium intake. Soya milk contains natural phytate substances that can reduce the body's ability to absorb calcium and other minerals.
And the last, make sure the intake of vitamin B12 for baby is fulfilled. Soya milk is made from plants, while vitamin B12 is found in animal foods, including cow's milk.
Keep in mind that about 10-14% of children who are allergic to cow's milk are also allergic to soy, so before giving milk for babies or children, make sure you discuss first to the pediatrician.
source: alodokter.com
source: alodokter.com
