It’s a personal choice. Cow’s milk is one of the most concentrated sources of calcium. One 8 oz. glass of milk (regular, low-fat or skim) provides 300 mg. of calcium. Soy milk is made from pressed, mature soy beans mixed with water and some sugar; soy is [the] most popular milk choice for children who are lactose-intolerant or follow a vegan or vegetarian diet. It is low in saturated fat. On the flip side, soy milk contains a few less grams of protein than cow’s milk -- the average plain or vanilla soy milk contains 100 – 140 calories per 8 oz. cup.
Almond milk is made from finely ground almonds mixed with water and some sugar. It is a popular choice for children with milk and soy allergies.
Rice milk is a mixture of partially milled rice and water. Rice allergies are extremely rare, so it is a fine choice for children with allergies to other types of milk.
Children ages 4-8 need 800 mg. of calcium per day and ages 9-18 require 1300 mg. of calcium per day.
Roufia Payman, DT, CDN
Health Quest System
Northern Dutchess Hospital
6511 Springbrook Avenue
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
845-871-3600
health-quest.org