How Can Toddlers Eat Healthily?
Apr 25, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
For toddlers’ healthy diet, the daily milk intake should be 350–500 mL. For children under 2 years of age who can no longer be breastfed, infant formula is recommended. Dietary diversity should be emphasized, with a preference for natural foods and a balanced diet. Daily intake should include: 1 egg, 50 g of animal-source foods, 100–150 g of grains, and 150–200 g of vegetables.
A toddler’s physical health is of utmost importance to parents. Adopting appropriate dietary practices can promote healthy growth and development and confer significant benefits to overall health. So, how can toddlers eat healthily?
How Can Toddlers Eat Healthily?
Toddlers should consume 350–500 mL of milk daily. For children under two years old who are no longer breastfed, infant formula is recommended. Dietary variety is essential; emphasize natural foods and balanced nutrition. Daily intake should include: one egg; 50 g of animal-source foods; 100–150 g of grains; 150–200 g of vegetables; 150–200 g of fruits; and 20–25 g of plant-based oils. Foods should be age-appropriate in size, slightly soft in texture, easy to digest, and low in salt—preferably familiar home-cooked meals. A typical daily meal plan includes three main meals, plus two to three servings of dairy products or nutritious snacks, with snacks limited between meals.
Toddlers’ gastrointestinal systems remain relatively delicate: their digestive glands are not yet fully developed, secretion of certain digestive enzymes is insufficient, and digestive capacity remains comparatively weak. Additionally, neurological development—including brain function and regulatory capacity—is still immature. Although chewing and digestive functions are significantly more advanced than during infancy, they remain less mature than those of adults. Therefore, food intake volume for toddlers should be gradually adjusted according to age.
Toddlers should not drink tea. Tea contains high levels of tannic acid, which interferes with the absorption of dietary protein, minerals, calcium, zinc, and iron—potentially leading to deficiencies that impair normal growth and development. Furthermore, caffeine in tea is a potent stimulant that may trigger hyperactivity in children. We hope this information proves helpful!
