Infants and Soy Milk???

[Ydolem]

Does anyone have any info on giving soy milk to infants? I'd love to hear what you know!! I have an 8 month old and I was wondering if giving him some soy milk once in a while in a sippy cup would be beneficial or if it is bad for them. I seem to find conflicting info online. Thanks~~Melody

: chicks

[cristeen]

I think it's important to understand why you'd be giving him soy milk... soy milk has nothing that he needs to grow. At 8 mos, he needs 1 beverage - BM (or formula). Beyond that, water is the only other thing that might serve a purpose.

But beyond that, I wouldn't give my child soymilk, even past a year.

[staceychev]

I agree with Cristeen entirely, especially for an 8 month old. After a year, you can start thinking about whether you're in the soy camp or the no-soy camp, or somewhere in between. Personally, I'm leery of soy that hasn't been fermented. I don't think soy milk has much value.

[Ydolem]

Thank you!

You know, you are clearly right. I guess I was getting carried away with starting new foods and was thinking of things he could try to drink. But, you are right. Breast milk is all he really needs and a little water while eating. How do you feel about diluted juices? He doesn't "need" that either then huh?

Thanks~~

[cristeen]

Originally Posted by Ydolem

How do you feel about diluted juices? He doesn't "need" that either then huh?

No, he doesn't. Why even climb on that train? Juice is pure sugar, and is not necessary at ANY point in a child's development. Better to not even start it.

[Ydolem]

....................departing train!

[ferndoula]

yes, I agree. I would give very watered down juice on the rare time, like if kiddo was at a birthday party and all the other kids have juice, and he knows it! then I water it down a lot, so its just basically the color. Other than this, juice is out. But really, its not very good at all for adults for that matter. It tastes good, but really its just sugar. (I like sugar...)