The age span of one to three years old is known as toddlerhood. Children go through this developmental period where they are growing both mentally and physically. hence Toddler Nutrition plays important role in all over growth of a child .

Their eating habits are also constantly changing. These children frequently love to take up new eating habits.
Children in this phase also try to copy their adults. Hence, adult supervision at preparing meals and toddler’s meal time are important.

Every child is unique in how they grow and develop, depending on their gender and birth weight. so keep an eye on their constant growth.

Toddler Nutrition-Nutritional Requirement

Toddler nutrition is crucial as they are learning a lot of new information rapidly. Lets see 5 main Nutritional requirement in this phase.

• Children develop really quickly at this age. As a result, daily calorie requirements rise. In order to achieve daily nutritional requirements, a range of meals should be supplied on the food pyramid in the right amount at the right time of day.
• Protein is important for growing muscles as well as building other tissues. Lean muscle mass in the body can be reduced due to a lack of enough proteins in the diet.

• Carbohydrates are vital for both toddlers and preschoolers. Brains that are active tend to prefer this fuel. Additionally, it offers a range of minerals that support healthy growth and well-being.

• Fats are too significant since they include vital fatty acids, which are needed for the proper development of the brain. Additionally, it facilitates the body’s absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, which are only absorbed in the presence of fat.
• The development of bones, muscles, and tissues, immunity, and healthy minerals. Minerals like as calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and vitamins A and D all play a major role in development. Serious issues might arise from vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

What can be offered to a  Toddler?

All things form food pyramids can be given to toddler and preschooler according to their age ,digestion capacity and according to   physical activity.

Cereals and whole grain

Whole grains like ragi, jowar, wheat, whole grain bread, rice, and oats can be given to the child as they are full of nutrition.

Protein

One excellent source of protein is poultry. To get the recommended amount of protein, one can include eggs, poultry, fish, and lean meat in a child’s normal diet. A meal may include nuts, seeds, beans, and other pulses such as moong dal, black gram, and Bengal gram. Sprouted moth beans , whole sprouted moong , green peas, white peas can be  add in the toddler nutrition.

Milk and milk products

Milk is an outstanding supplier of protein and fat. It contains certain vitamins and minerals as well, which are important for a child’s growth. The calcium need at this time can be satisfied by regular milk consumption. It is capable of fulfilling the nutritional needs of toddlers.

Fruits and vegetables

Eating fruits and vegetables on a regular basis provides all the necessary vitamins and minerals. It is possible to feed fruits raw or in juice. Growing youngsters should consume all kinds of veggies to get more nutrients. It’s advised to vary your fruits and veggies. Vegetable soups and fruit juices are full of all the essential vitamins and minerals needed. It is one of the most important parts of toddler nutrition.

Here are a few guidelines for fallows:

• Toddler nutrition often depends on a parent’s guidance and action. A parent’s role is crucial in controlling their child’s eating habits. It is up to them to determine what kind, how much, and what quality of food the youngster may have.
• Mealtime regulations need to be relaxed. When it comes to eating, parents must ensure that food is neither choked or badly digested.
• The child can be fed a variety of foods from each dietary category. If at all feasible, the child should be given a choice among every type of food included in the food pyramid. Allow children to experiment with different kinds of cuisine. When preparing their meal, choose every form of food in accordance with the food pyramid, which will completely meet the needs of toddler nutrition.
• Pleasant surroundings should be created during mealtimes. Remove all sources of distraction.
  A calm and joyful atmosphere at the dinner table improves the toddler’s digestion, which indirectly enhances toddler nutrition.
• Sometimes, children refuse food that is offered to them. When the youngster is eating, give them permission to do so and be patient.
• During mealtimes, educate the youngster about good and bad dietary choices. Food needs to be appealing in appearance.
• Toddler nutrition is further hampered by improper mealtimes and meal places. to avoid it ,food should be served at the dining table. A child’s continuous grazing might be given the full filling. As a result, a youngster may consume too few calories, which stunts their growth.

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In summary Of Toddler Nutrition

During this stage, children grow swiftly and frequently change their dietary habits. They get pickier and moodier. However, in order to guide them, parents must be continually vigilant. Always feed nutrient-dense meals, as recommended by the food pyramid. Make a dish for your toddler with different flavors and colors so they can enjoy it. Avoid processed and unhealthy foods.