How to Get More Fiber into a Toddler’s Diet

A diet with the right amount of fiber can keep a toddler from getting constipated, which can be uncomfortable and painful. Read on to find out where to find flavorful fiber in both natural and processed foods.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A trip to the grocery store

1. Read nutrition labels. Some foods have less than 1 g of fiber per serving, while others may have 3 g-equal to 12 percent of a recommended daily allowance.

2. Get fruits and veggies. Everything from avocado and apples, to pineapple and blueberries helps; bananas are the only no-no for fruit. Dried fruit like figs, prunes, raisins and apricots travel well as snacks. You can also puree veggies to make a tasty soup.

3. Go with wheat. Wheat and multi-grain are becoming common options when it comes to buying baked goods. You can get wheat waffles, pancakes, pasta and pizza.

4. Think packaged goods. Fiber can be found in granola snacks, cereal and in new snack chips.

5. You can go back to baby food. Some packaged baby foods offer 2 g fiber per serving, and with larger appetites, toddlers can eat two packages.

Tips & Warnings

• Help reduce choking risk by slicing fruits like grapes, and also chewy dried fruits, into small pieces.
• Making sure that a toddler gets enough liquids can complement fiber intake if a child is constipated.

Resources

• American Academy of Pediatrics