Milk Alternatives

A question from a parent prompted me to look more closely into the different milk alternatives available.  The simple answer is read the labels!  There is a wide variety between types of milk and brands. 

You need to consider protein, vitamin D, calcium and fat.  For example, if you chose to go with almond milk which has calcium and vitamin D but little protein, then you need to make sure there is another source of protein in your kid’s diet.

Here are two websites that discuss the strengths and weaknesses of soy, almond, coconut, rice and hemp milk.
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/lactose-intolerance-14/options
http://health.clevelandclinic.org/2013/05/mooving-to-an-alternative-to-cows-milk/