At what age is it recommended to introduce cows or goat's milk to an infant's diet?

Introducing cow's or goat's milk into an infant's diet should be done with caution. It is generally recommended not to introduce these types of milk before the age of 12 months. This is primarily because infants under one year have immature kidneys that may not be able to handle the high concentration of protein and electrolytes found in these types of milk. Additionally, if introduced too early, there's a risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia as these milks do not provide sufficient iron for a growing infant and may interfere with the absorption of iron from other foods.

Breast milk or iron-fortified formula is recommended for infants during the first year, as they provide the necessary nutrients and are easier on the infant's digestive system. After the first birthday, a child's digestive system is generally more mature and able to process cow's or goat's milk safely, making it a suitable option for their diet. Thus, the correct recommendation is to wait until at least 12 months before introducing cow's or goat's milk.