Bhakti Paun Sharma
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Written By: Bhakti Paun Sharma | Updated : July 4, 2016 5:33 PM IST
Read this in HINDI.
Feeding a toddler is by far a mother s biggest concern. Try these tips to make your toddler eat better. There are so many questions on your mind and so much of advice to process. We made the job slightly easier for you. If you are wondering when exactly can your tiny tot start eating your food or adult food, here s the answer. We asked Dr Fazal Nabi, Pediatrician at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre and here are his inputs:
Breastfeeding is ideal for up to 6 months of age. After 6 months you can start with light food. Mashed vegetables, soups that are basically purees of vegetables or fruits, khichdi which is semi-liquid are some of the foods you can slowly introduce to your child s diet. Here s why you must not feed your one year old cow milk. Weaning foods are a good option at this age.
Once your child is one year of age and above, vegetables cooked without spice can be introduced. Even though you are serving him khichdi, ensure it does not contain salt. Here s why you must never add salt or sugar to your 1 year old s food.
You can begin adding mild spices like cinnamon and salt to the food of 18-24-month-old child. Strong spices must be avoided. If you use turmeric, add it in extremely minimal quantities. The baby can also be offered some foods from the family pot at this age. You can also check this nutrition guide for toddlers along with a sample meal plan.
Adult food in the form of junk or unhealthy food must be ideally avoided at all ages. Find out how India s top junk foods are ruining your child s health. However, if at all, you have to introduce your child to simple and healthy restaurant food, it should only be after 3 years of age. The aim is to provide maximum nutrition at an early age for essential development. Also, eating foods at restaurants can result in infections in toddlers. Encourage children to eat home cooked meals that are cooked for the entire family. Too much sugar or spice must be avoided at early ages. Here are some tips on how you can stop your kid from eating junk food.
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