A randomized controlled trial in formula-fed infants given meat-based or dairy-based complimentary diets (same total calories, protein, and fat) showed the length-for-age increased in the meat group and declined in the dairy group.

In terms of overweight risk, the dairy group was at higher risk compared with that of the meat group.

In summary, these findings suggest that protein intakes from complementary foods can significantly affect infant growth and possibly overweight risks. Larger clinical trials need to confirm.