One thing that we must understand right off the bat is that nutrition is essential at every stage in life. Right from birth to senescence, eating the right food should be our topmost priority however it is not always easy to get toddlers on board when it comes to eating healthy.
Toddlers can be fussy when it comes to eating right, which makes your job of feeding them even more difficult. However, all you need to do is work your way around their tantrums. Continue reading to find out how you can fulfill their nutritional requirements correctly and how to feed them right!
What is important for toddlers to eat?
Children between the ages of 2 and 5 have certain dietary requirements that they need to meet every day. Here are a few foods that you need to include in your toddler’s daily meals.
Grains and Beans
Grains, beans, and lentils contain a ton of fiber that is important for growing children. It keeps their digestive systems healthy and gives them enough carbohydrates for long-lasting energy!
Fruit and Vegetables
Fruits are packed with antioxidants, minerals, and essential vitamins. You can give your toddler fruits as a substitute snack. They are much healthier than sugary snacks you often find in supermarkets. Vegetables are, no doubt, a staple. Feed your child as many greens as you can to fulfill their vitamin and mineral needs!
Milk and dairy
Milk and milk products must be added to every meal so that your child gets enough calcium to help them grow. Milk is packed with protein, which helps your child develop healthy bodies. It also helps them keep their minds sharp.
Meats and Fish
Meat is a great source of protein and can be included in one meal a day. Fish like salmon is a great source of omega-3 and it must be included in your toddler’s diet. Chicken, bacon, and other white meats can be added to the breakfast for more energetic meals! You can give your toddler boiled eggs in the morning for breakfast to help with protein requirements!
Healthy lunch idea for your toddler
Here is a quick recipe you can try:
What you'll need:
Whole-grain bagel
1/3rd cup marinara or any red sauce
½ cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup bell peppers (red, yellow, orange, and/or green)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Cut the bagel into two and cover each half in the sauce.
Cover the top with mozzarella.
Add peppers or any other vegetable.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Serve warm!
How often should a toddler eat in a day?
You must feed toddlers about 5-6 times a day. Give them three proper meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, make sure they are snacking on healthy foods like fruits and nuts all day.
You can feed toddlers in intervals of 3 hours. Also, you must make sure they are hydrated too. So, give them water and plenty of juicy all day!
Foods that are an absolute no
High sugar foods and processed foods are not healthy for toddlers. Moreover, foods that can be choking hazards like grapes and nuts like almonds must be given to them with the utmost precaution.
Feeding a toddler can be a monumental task. Make sure you give your child the right proteins, vitamins, and carbohydrates in generous amounts so that they are healthy and happy. However, if you run your imagination wild, you can disguise any healthy food to look like a pizza!
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