Are There Important Nutrients Missing From Your Preschooler's Diet?

The power of nutrients!

“A child’s body needs nutrition, not just food.” Julie Webb Kelley

Quality nutrition is so important throughout life, but especially during those early developmental years. But, what does a nutrient dense, balanced diet look like?

According to Gerber and the Nestlé’s 2008 Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study, these are the nutrients that preschoolers are sometimes missing…

Important Nutrients Your Preschooler Needs

Fruits and vegetables- preschoolers often do not get enough if any. It is recommended to serve your preschooler 1 cup of fruit and 1 cup of vegetables a day.
Cereals- your preschooler may be eating cereal, but are they enriched with iron and minerals?
Fiber- more whole grains and fruits and vegetables can help with this one.
Vitamin E- Avocados, whole grains, and leafy vegetables.
Potassium- sweet potatoes, yogurt, and bananas are rich.
Healthy Fats- use healthy oils that are full of omega 3s.

Get more details on this list via Gerber here: Preschooler Balanced Diet

A Balanced Meal – Just Cook For Kids

Remember that a meal is an experience. The nutrients are important, so are the lessons and bonding.

“Let’s remember that we are serving our children more than nutrients. We are serving them love and care.”

Make vegetables and fruits the majority
Use smaller plates for meals
Small glass of fresh juice on occasion
Brown over white for rice
Unprocessed as much as possible
Sit with children whenever you can

“The early years are when you give your child a foundation for establishing a proper diet. If kids learn about the importance of eating healthy early in their lives, they will not have to relearn as an adult.” Nicole Henderson