What you need to know about toddlers' nutrition

When you're feeding a toddler, it's not just about making sure they're getting enough calories. There are many other nutrients that are important for growing kids, and toddlers need to eat a wide variety of foods to get all the nutrients they need. Here's what you need to know about toddlers' nutrition!

Wean them off the bottle.

It's recommended that parents wean their children off the bottle by age 1. Toddlers can use a sippy cup as an alternative to the bottle. Sippy cups are available in most stores. Make sure you choose a cup with a soft spout, so your child doesn’t injure his or her mouth.

Make sure they get enough protein.

Protein is an important building block for your child's body. Protein provides the amino acids that are necessary for growth and development. Protein also helps to maintain muscle mass and bone density.

In general, toddlers should eat about one-third of their daily calories from protein. It is best to provide a wide variety of protein sources, such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, nuts and seeds.

Make sure they’re getting enough iron.

Iron is important for toddlers because it helps their bodies produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to cells and tissues. Iron also helps toddlers grow and develop. Toddlers need about 10 milligrams of iron a day. Foods rich in iron are lean meats, eggs, beans, spinach, and fortified cereals. If your toddler doesn't eat enough iron-rich foods, ask your doctor about giving your child an iron supplement.

Avoid junk food and sugary drinks.

While it may be tempting to feed your toddler a lot of junk food, this can lead to health problems. Junk food and sugary drinks can lead to weight gain, cavities, and lack of nutrients. Instead, make sure your toddler is eating healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats.

Avoid food allergies and intolerances.

A toddler's food preferences may change day to day, so it's important to offer a variety of foods. This will help your child get the nutrients they need. Offer your toddler a variety of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid giving your toddler too much sugar, as this can lead to food allergies and intolerances.