Toddlers include children between one year and four years of age. Their diet needs food that will give them plenty of vitamins, minerals, nutrients and energy, as they need it for healthy growth and development. Also healthy diet can make them more immune to different illnesses.
Iron is essential nutrient in toddler’s diet, it can be found in meat, fortified cereals and leafy vegetables but it should be combined with foods that are rich with vitamin C as that ensures more efficient absorption of iron in the blood.
Calcium is need for both bone and teeth growth and can be found in dairy products.
Vitamins C, D and A are essential. Vitamin C for growth and immune system, vitamin D for calcium metabolism and vitamin A for skin and cell development. All these can be given as supplements as well, however not without a consultation with a doctor.
In terms of proper food, your toddlers diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables (5 portions a day), milk and dairy products (about half of liter of milk a day), 2 servings of meat, poultry or fish and starchy carbohydrates such as potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and the like which should be served with all meals. Fatty and sugary foods can be included however only in small amounts.
The problems you might encounter with toddlers are that they might be fussy or picky eaters. This is normal and most children go through such phases. It could be helpful to make mealtime fun for them and try to remain calmed and relaxed. Also rather then letting them pick their food, offer regular meals and snacks.
Toddlers are also prone to food allergies. Keep track of what your child is eating as this will help you find out which food caused the reaction. In case of swelling and breathing difficulties take them to a doctor immediately. And do not play doctor and decide on your own what food allergies you child may or may not have, as you could be denying him or her an essential source of nutrients. Seek medical advice.
If your child is overweight for his or her age, cut down on snacks and seek an advice from doctor. If the child has problems with weight gain, also consult a doctor to check for underlying medical reasons. Toddlers have small appetites so make sure their meals are full of calories and nutrients.