A 1-Year-Old's Diet
When your child turns 1, many things change. They want to walk and talk more, and their eating habits are different. It leaves most parents not really sure on what they should be feeding their child and how much. Most parents are not sure about taking away formula and giving regular milk. A 1-year-old child’s diet is similar to our own.
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Milk
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Within the last year, your child has depended upon formula for all his nutrients. Once your child hits 1, your pediatrician will want you to switch to cow’s milk. You will want to make sure you give the child whole milk for plenty of calcium and vitamin D. Whole milk is best until your child reaches 2. You can try to introduce the cup to your child between 12 and 18 months.
Foods with Iron
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Once your child is not taking formula, iron is your biggest concern. You will want to make sure you have a diet for your child that is rich in iron. You can try meat, fish, tofu, beans and any iron-fortified snacks. Your child should only take in 16 to 24 ounces of milk a day. Until your child is up to 24 months of age, continue the iron-fortified cereal.
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Foods to avoid
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When starting new foods, always watch out for any allergic reactions your child may have. Inform your doctor of any allergic reactions your child may experience. You will want to avoid any food that could cause your child to choke. Avoid popcorn, hard fruits, hard candies, raisins, grapes, nuts and hot dogs. You should always keep a close eye on your child while she is eating.
How much should my child eat?
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As parents, we all worry if our child is eating enough. Your child should eat three whole meals a day. Offer your child two to three snacks a day too. Some children will skip meals. That is just their way of telling us they are full. You do not want to push any food on your child or allow them to eat all day. On average, a toddler needs 1,300 calories a day. Keep a schedule of time to eat so your child will expect food during those times.
Worries
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There are plenty of things parents are going to worry about as their child goes on this new journey. A lot of parents worry that their child is not eating enough. As long as your child is gaining weight, they are eating enough. Your child may not eat a balanced meal each day. That is completely normal. As long as he is eating well all week, you have nothing to worry about. With any worry you have just remember, your pediatrician is there for all your questions.
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References
- Photo Credit BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
