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Are you wondering what are best foods for your kid? If so, then you are not alone because millions of parents struggle with finding quality food for their children.
Well, I am here to tell you that some foods are essential for your child’s overall health and growth. In this article, I share my top picks and why they are great for both babies and toddlers.
Milk
To begin with, milk is a staple in every house. We drink it morning, noon and night. It can be used as an ingredient in baking or cooking or even as a first aid treatment for a boo-boo or other minor cuts and scrapes.
There are many different types of milk out there including whole, 2% low fat, nonfat, soy, almond, rice, oat and others. Therefore, the best type of milk for your baby depends on the age of your child.
Fruits
The fruit has been proven to contain antioxidants which help protect against heart disease. You should start giving your child fruit juices when she is about one year old.
Give her two servings per day during the summer months and increase to 3-4 times per week during winter.
Also, remember to limit the amount of juice you give your toddler as too much sugar in the diet may lead to tooth decay.
Whole Grains
They provide fiber, vitamins and minerals which promote healthy digestion. Whole wheat bread and pasta are excellent choices as well as oats, brown rice and quinoa.
These are also better options for those who are gluten intolerant. Always opt for certified gluten-free grains.
Eggs
Eggs are another nutrient-rich food that is packed full of protein but they are also very easy for toddlers to eat.
You can serve eggs right from the shell or hard-boiled, scrambled or fried. My favourite way to make them is scrambled!
Vegetables
I cannot count how many times I have heard parents say ‘my kid only eats vegetables at dinner time.
As long as your kid gets plenty of fruits and veggies throughout the day, he will get all the nutrition he needs. Here are some of the best ways to sneak veggies into meals:
- Mix cooked vegetables with mashed potatoes or cornbread.
- Add veggie purees like carrot, broccoli, peas or zucchini to smoothies or dressings.
- Make vegetable sandwiches like egg salad or tuna salad.
Lean Protein
Lean meats such as chicken breast, turkey, fish and seafood improve child’s bone density.
Beef is okay if it is lean but avoid pork and lamb as these meats often contain more saturated fats than beef. If you do decide to go meatless try to incorporate beans, tofu or lentils.
Healthy Snacks
If you want to feed your little ones healthier snacks, look no further than applesauce and bananas. Both of these foods offer tons of nutrients while being easy for toddlers to chew.
Applesauce could be served plain or mixed with cereal or yoghurt. Bananas are great for breakfast as they are naturally sweet but you can add a tablespoon of honey and cinnamon to turn them into a yummy treat.
Nuts
Nuts are high in calories so keep a close eye on portions and calories consumed by your toddler. Moreover, nuts get incorporated into any meal. Try adding peanut butter to toast or crackers, chopped-up almonds to salads or trail mix for snack time.
Water
Drink lots of water throughout the day. This helps ensure proper hydration and aids in bowel movements.
Children must drink enough water each day. This constitutes half their body weight divided by 12 ounces (or less).
Fiber
Dietary fiber provides bulk to stools, helping prevent constipation. It also improves satiety, making us feel fuller for longer.
Include fruits and vegetables in most of his meals, especially after 6 pm.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids help promote growth, vision and brain development. Serve flaxseed oil or ground walnuts once or twice per week.
Or give him salmon several times per month to boost his omega levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adults should limit kids from sweets and natural sugars .
Moreover, you can buy best foods like juices without added juice concentrate from local stores and make your smoothies using frozen or canned fruit.
