During your baby’s first year, regular cow’s milk is not a good substitute for breastmilk or iron-fortified infant formula. The balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates in cow’s milk is far from ideal for your baby. Cow’s milk may irritate your baby’s immature digestive system. It has excessive amounts of some vitamins and minerals (especially sodium, which could stress your baby’s kidneys). And cow’s milk doesn’t provide adequate amounts of iron for your baby’s growth and development.

You’ll want to continue giving your baby breastmilk or iron-fortified infant formula even when she starts eating solid foods. It’s the best way to ensure that her nutritional needs are met during her entire first year.