Is it good for children to drink milk before bedtime?
Disease description:
I am a 30-year-old mother with a 5-year-old child. Recently, I have been giving my child a cup of milk before bedtime every night. However, I heard that this might not be a good idea and would like to confirm. Is it advisable for a child to drink milk before bedtime?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
It is beneficial for children to drink an appropriate amount of milk before bedtime. Milk is rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D, which can provide essential nutrients for growing children, especially supporting bone and dental health. Moreover, drinking warm milk before sleep can help relax the body and mind and improve sleep quality. However, if a child is lactose intolerant or has a weak digestive system, it may cause bloating, indigestion, and other issues, so individual differences should be considered when deciding whether it is appropriate.
It is recommended to control the amount of milk consumed before bedtime, usually a small glass is sufficient. Ensure that the milk is consumed half an hour to an hour before sleeping, allowing enough time for initial digestion. Also, observe the child's reaction, and if discomfort occurs, consider switching to low-lactose or lactose-free milk products or adjust the drinking time to daytime. To further optimize the diet, it can be paired with other foods rich in dietary fiber to support healthy intestinal function. Regular monitoring of the child's growth and development is recommended, along with following medical advice to create a reasonable dietary plan that supports the child's healthy growth.
