Question
Are sugary and salty foods bad for my child?
Answer
Babies under 1 year of age shouldn’t be introduced to sweets or salty snacks. Babies have relatively high nutrient needs and low calorie needs, which means that all of the foods they eat should be packed with nutrition.
By the time your child is a toddler, there may be room for an occasional treat. But don’t get into the habit of offering sweets or salty foods, such as candy, soda, or chips, on a daily basis. They offer limited necessary nutrients and a high amount of calories.
Your toddler’s tummy is fairly small, so he can eat only small amounts at a time. He will do best when fed four to six times a day. Each food offering should be considered a mini meal that will contribute to his nutrient intake for the day.
Although your toddler seems really active, most toddlers aren’t active enough to need more calories until they’re at least 3 years old. So all foods in your toddler’s healthy meal plan should be built from a variety of foods that provide needed nutrients. For example, mashed fruits or vegetables; dairy foods, such as cheese, milk and yogurt; whole- grain foods, including cereal, pasta, and bread/crackers; and meat/bean foods, such as lean meat or poultry, fish, or mashed beans or peas. Offering a variety of healthy foods shows that there isn't room for sweets or salty foods on a daily basis.
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