Top 10 Healthy Foods For Your Toddler

Is your toddler a fussy eater? Are you always trying to ensure you prepare healthy meals for your toddler? Do you worry about what your toddler should eat on a regular basis?

If you are a worried mom, we are here to help. Read on to know about some healthy toddler foods that are must to be included in the list.

Top 10 Healthy Foods For Toddlers To Eat:

Here are ten super healthy food ideas for toddlers:

1. Fruits:

Try and include as many colorful fruits in your toddler’s diet as you can [1].

• Fruits contain very few amounts of calories and fats but are a good source of natural sugars, vitamins and fiber. All these are very important for your toddler’s overall health.

• The soluble dietary fiber present in fruits helps to keep cholesterol levels in check. It will also prevent obesity in your toddler. Fiber will also aid in your toddler’s digestive system and keep bowel movement smooth and regular.

• Fruits that contain vitamin C will help your toddler’s immune development.

• Vitamin A present if fruits are good for your toddler’s eyes and iron will help to prevent anemia.

[ Read: High-Calorie Foods For Your Picky Toddler ]

2. Vegetables:

Include fresh and colorful vegetables in your toddler’s diet [2].

• Vegetables contain fiber and protein that will keep your baby full for longer periods of time. The fiber will also help to aid in your toddler’s digestive system and keep bowel smooth and regular.

• Vegetables contain healthy carbohydrates and are good for overall health.

• The phytonutrients present in vegetables help to boost your toddler’s immunity.

[ Read: Vegetable Recipes For Toddlers ]

3. Nuts:

Make sure you speak to your toddler’s doctor before giving nuts. It will help prevent any occurrence of nut allergies [3].

• Nuts are full of monounsaturated fatty acids that help keep the bad cholesterol in check and increase the good cholesterol.

• Nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc and selenium, all of which are very good for your toddler’s overall health.

4. Peanut Butter:

Each time you spread that peanut butter on your toddler’s toast, you’re spreading health [4].

• Peanut butter contains vitamins and nutrients that help to fulfill your toddler’s daily requirement needs.

• Peanut butter is loaded with vitamins A and E, calcium, folic acid, zinc, iron, fiber and magnesium.

• It also contains a good amount of monounsaturated fats that are good for the heart’s health.

[ Read: Delicious Breakfast Recipes For Toddlers ]

5. Fish:

Fish contain some of the highest nutrients your toddler can benefit from. However, make sure your toddler eats fish that is low in mercury content [5].

• Eating fish is very good for the heart and eyes. Some studies also link eating fish to higher memory and IQ levels.

• Eating fish on a regular basis is good for your toddler’s eyes, skin and hair too.

• Fish is also rich in protein and healthy fats.

[ Read: Nutritious Snacks For Toddlers ]

6. Cheese:

Cheese is a healthy and delicious addition to your toddler’s meal plate [6].

• Cheese contains a high dose of calcium, phosphorus, protein, zinc and vitamins A and B12.

• The protein in cheese provides your toddler’s body with essential building blocks to develop strong muscles.

7. Whole Grains:

This particular healthy food for toddlers cannot be skipped. Try and include as much whole grains in your toddler’s diet as possible [7].

• Grains are a rich source of fiber that helps to maintain a good digestive system and prevent constipation.

• Grains contain a large number of nutrients like magnesium, selenium, iron, folate, niacin and more.

• Eating grains lowers cholesterol levels in your toddler’s blood stream. It also helps to prevent diabetes and heart conditions later.

8. Beans:

If your toddler likes beans, you’re in luck! [8]

• Most nutrients found in most vegetables and fruits are also found in beans.

• Beans contain antioxidants that protect the cells in your toddler’s body. It is good for your toddler’s heart and prevents cancer in later years.

• Beans are also full of protein and fiber along with various minerals like folic acid, zinc, iron and potassium.

9. Air-Popped Popcorn:

You will not look at that tub of popcorn with hate anymore [9].

• Experts suggest that popcorns contain more antioxidants than a full day’s intake of fruits and vegetables.

• Popcorn is rich in fiber and will aid your toddler’s digestive system.

• Eating popcorn can also prevent constipation.

10. Water And Fresh Juices:

Even though it is not technically a food, your toddler should have enough water every day [10].

• Water helps to maintain the balance of bodily fluids in your toddler.

• Drinking water and liquids will provide energy to your toddler’s muscles.

• It is great to maintain the health of your toddler’s skin and hair.

The ten foods mentioned here are good for your toddler’s overall development. Make sure you include as much as possible in your toddler’s regular diet. Speak to the doctor before introducing a new food to avoid any allergic reactions.

At what age did you introduce these healthy foods for toddlers? Does your toddler eat them without a fuss? How do you mask certain foods to ensure your toddler eats them? Do share your experiences and tips here.

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