There are many foods that are that the toddlers love but not all of them are really healthy. Among the best foods that you can offer to them are apples, bananas, mango, grapes, kiwi, berries avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded carrots, apple chips, dried fruits, raisins, energy bites, and toddler pouches. Here are more ideas for snack food for toddlers.
Yogurt
One of the best snacks that you can give to a toddler is yogurt. It contains live bacteria and its highly beneficial to the digestive system. The yogurt also has plenty of calcium and protein that are great for developing the kids’ bones. Yogurt works best as a snack when combined with honey and fresh fruits, however, honey is not suitable for infants that are less than 12 years old as it can cause a very serious infection known as botulism.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal works as a very healthy breakfast and snack. It is high in the soluble fiber, which helps increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. It’s best to use rolled or whole oats instead of flavored packets that contain a lot of sugar. Oatmeal with milk is a great source of calcium and protein.
Fruit Smoothies
There are many nutrients in a fruit smoothie, which could include both fruits and vegetables. Make sure you avoid using fruit juices and use fresh ingredients instead. Fresh smoothies are packed with multiple antioxidants, as well as vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, vitamins A, B, and C.
Boiled Eggs
Boiled eggs, especially hard-boiled, are a great high-protein treat for the toddlers. They contain a vitamin called choline which is perfect for the brain development of children of all ages. Besides being highly nutritious, the eggs provide a wide variety of vitamins and minerals such as riboflavin, selenium, and vitamin B12, as well as zeaxanthin and lutein.
Pickles
The fermented cucumbers in water and salt are a great source of vitamin K. Just like the yogurt, pickles are good for the digestive system because they contain a probiotic bacteria. Some sweet pickles contain a high amount of sugars and shouldn’t be given to toddlers as snacks.
Bell Peppers and Guacamole
The bell peppers are highly nutritious and naturally sweet. With a huge amount of carotenoids, fiber, and vitamin C, the bell peppers are perfect for the eye health as well as many other body organs. If you are looking for a snack for toddlers that includes bell peppers, try the combination of bell peppers and guacamole which is very tasty.
Piece of Fruit
Fruits are some of the most healthy and convenient snacks for kids of all ages. They all contain different vitamins and minerals and have their own amount of sugar. Potassium, fiber, calcium, vitamins A, B, and C, are just a few of the many benefits of the fruits. There are also so many fruits that kids love – apples, bananas, kiwis, grapes, peaches, strawberries, cherries, watermelon, and etc.
Avocado Rolls with Turkey
Avocado and turkey rolls are very delicious. They are easy-to-eat and can be used for grab-and-go snacks. Avocados are some of the most healthy foods. They are full of folate, antioxidants, pantothenic acid, fiber, vitamins C and K, and heart-healthy fats. As for the turkey meat, it’s the perfect source for protein which can help tissues in the body to be repaired and rebuild.
Nuts
Nuts contain healthy and monosaturated fats, antioxidants, and fiber among many beneficial nutrients. Almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pistachios, walnuts, pine nuts, pecans are some of the most well-liked nuts used as snacks for children of all ages. Besides being healthy, they can be a choking hazard so make sure that your child can handle this texture.
Popcorn
Most people consider popcorn to be a portion of junk food but in fact, it’s a great snack that brings a lot of nutrients (vitamins B1, B3, B6, magnesium, zinc, etc). Popcorn without any unhealthy toppings is a very healthy snack for the kids. If you want to make popcorn taste even better, air-pop them by yourself and spring grated Parmesan cheese or butter. Just like nuts, however, it’s good to be cautious when you offer popcorn as they can be a choking hazard.