Those of you who know kids know that toddlers can be picky. Not only are they having temper tantrums, but they are also fighting you when it comes to what they need to eat. Here are some high-fiber foods that you can introduce to your toddler.
The Goodness of Fiber
Without fiber, the pipes can clog up. That means that your digestive system can have a hard time moving its contents. Fiber helps to keep things moving in your body. Your energy can increase because the body is kept at optimal health.
Are you a person who is always hungry? Eating more fiber will help give you that feeling of fullness faster so you don’t overeat. Many foods high in fiber are also good sources of protein, so you get muscle-building goodness too.
Toddler Diets
At this point in their lives, kids won’t eat what they don’t want. But that is no reason to stop trying to get them to eat the right foods. For instance, if they won’t eat carrots, try sweet potatoes. If they don’t like green beans, try broccoli or peas. There are always ways to get more of the good stuff in their diets.
Foods that are full of fiber are good for the entire family. The important thing here is to let kids taste the natural flavor of the food without preservatives or condiments. Fewer preservatives make for a healthier diet all around.
Here are some of the high-fiber foods that you can offer to your toddler:
* Whole grain breads
* Beans
* Legumes
* Whole grain cereals
* Brown rice
* Fresh whole fruit
* Fresh vegetables
* Nuts
Serve these foods to your toddler in fun ways. One idea is to give them finger foods. Toddles love portable food. Carrot sticks, apple slices (without the skin), toast squares, celery sticks and the like are able to be carried around by you or your toddler until they want to eat them.
Cereal is a healthy breakfast food and a snack. You can add bran cereal to yogurt to give it a crunch. Have your child help you to make your own granola bars filled with oats, nuts, honey and granola. Helping and eating something so scrumptious can increase their appetite for these kinds of foods.
Use the hide and seek method. In sauces, like tomato sauce, add diced vegetables like onions, peppers and carrots. They are small enough that your child will eat them without knowing they are there.
For children who don’t like fiber-rich foods, keep trying. In the meantime, you can use a fiber supplement in their food. It is tasteless and can provide the much needed fiber for their diet.
Toddlers are lovable but can be a challenge. Here are some ideas to help you get more fiber into their diet.