How Much Cow’s Milk Should a 13- to 18-Month-Old Drink?

Which milk is suitable from 13 to 18 months?

In the US, CDC says pasteurized, plain, unsweetened whole cow’s milk can be included in a varied diet from 12 months.

NHS guidance allows pasteurized whole or semi-skimmed cow’s milk as a main drink from 12 months, while recommending full-fat dairy foods until age 2.

Breast milk can continue. If your child has an allergy, special diet, or medical condition, ask a clinician before choosing a substitute.

Exactly how many millilitres should a child drink?

There is no single amount that applies to every child and every country. Guidance may count milk in ounces or servings, and may include yoghurt or cheese in dairy totals.

US AAP parent guidance commonly gives 16–24 fluid ounces (about 473–710 mL) after the first birthday; current NHS guidance does not give that same fixed volume. Follow advice from your local health system.

UK NHS guidance does not set the same fixed daily cow’s-milk volume on its over-12-month page. Do not combine the figures as if they were one universal rule.

Why does CDC count dairy servings?

CDC describes children aged 12–23 months as needing about two daily servings of dairy, which may include milk, full-fat yoghurt, cheese, or suitable fortified alternatives.

This approach recognises that dairy can come from foods as well as a cup of milk. The child’s full diet matters.

CDC also says cow’s milk is not a substitute for food and advises following the child’s hunger and fullness cues.

Why does NHS advice look different?

The NHS page focuses on the transition to family foods, suitable main drinks, and the types of milk and dairy products for children over 12 months.

It says pasteurized whole or semi-skimmed cow’s milk can be a main drink after 12 months, while lower-fat dairy foods are recommended until age 2.

The NHS page does not state the same fixed volume as US AAP parent guidance. Follow the advice used in your local health system.

Why can too much milk be a concern?

Large amounts of milk can fill a toddler and leave less appetite for varied foods, including iron-containing foods.

CDC warns that excess cow’s milk may make it harder for the body to absorb iron from food.

If your child drinks a lot of milk or eats very few solids, discuss their diet and growth with a clinician rather than abruptly restricting intake.

Is milk a meal or a drink?

Cow’s milk can contribute nutrients, but it does not replace a varied pattern of meals and snacks.

Offer it in a cup with meals or as advised locally, and make water available. Avoid letting milk become an all-day substitute for food.

Prepare and serve drinks safely; move away from a bottle when appropriate and protect teeth with good oral hygiene.

Is cow’s milk necessary if breastfeeding continues?

No. Breastfeeding can continue as long as parent and child want; cow’s milk is not required solely because a child has turned one.

A varied diet can include other dairy foods or suitable alternatives, depending on family needs and local guidance.

Ask a clinician or dietitian about calcium, vitamin D, iodine, or other nutrients if dairy is limited.

When should you get professional advice?

Ask for advice if your child has a milk allergy, restricted diet, poor growth, suspected iron deficiency, or relies heavily on milk.

Discuss the right milk type and amount for your child if they were born prematurely or have a health condition affecting nutrition.

Seek urgent care for signs of a severe allergic reaction such as trouble breathing or swelling of the face or tongue.

What can you do today?

Check whether the guidance you are following is from your local health system; US and UK recommendations are not identical.

Offer a varied diet, suitable milk or dairy, and water; do not let milk routinely replace meals.

Keep breastfeeding if you both wish.

Ask your child’s clinician for a tailored amount if diet, growth, allergy, or iron status is a concern.