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Inculcating healthy eating habits in toddlers.

Inculcating healthy eating habits in toddlers.

Inculcating healthy eating habits in toddlers might be the toughest job for the parents. But developing such habits early in childhood lay a strong foundation for healthier adulthood.

Here are some ways parents can follow to inculcate healthy eating habits in toddlers.

  1. Be a role model for your kids – More often children follow footsteps of their parents. They try to do what they see their parents do. If parents themselves follow unhealthy eating practices like eating on wrong timings, having processed foods etc, children will follow suit. So if parents want their children to eat healthy, they should themselves follow healthy eating practices in front of their children.
  2. Healthier foods should be more accessible to children at home than unhealthy ones – your dining area , stored food containers, refrigerator which are accessible to children should contain healthy foodstuffs like fruits, dry fruits, nuts, makhanas , homemade chiwdas etc. If children find unhealthy foods like chips, soft drinks, outside packaged foods easily when hungry ,they will try to gorge on them.
  3. Be creative with food preparation – Trying out healthy but tastier recipes makes meal timings interesting for toddlers. If children dislike certain food, including the same food in different forms might do the trick in making them eat it. e.g – when vegetables are hidden in cutlets, wheat flour is used instead if refined flour in cakes, children eat the food readily without creating fuss . So its a win win situation for parents as well as children.
  4. Be patient – Being patient is very necessary when trying to feed your toddler . Children might not readily gulp down healthy foods as they grow. Being very strict or giving up too soon doesn’t work when trying to teach your child healhy eating practices. Try to experiment new ways which might work for your toddler . e.g – Make interesting stories with foods that they are eating , playing with their favourite toys when feeding etc.
  5. Eat with your child – Eating healthy and nutritious food as a family with children can really help in inculcating healthy eating habits in them. If not all the meals ,parents must try to eat atleast one meal with their children. Not only toddler develop a sense of bonding with parents, but will make the meal time a very happy affair for them.

2. Water Melon – The first fruit to arrive on the summer scene is the watermelon. The pink inside of the fruit and the delicious pulp is packed with water and minerals. Cool and refresh your body with watermelon as summer progresses.

3. Star Fruit – A lesser known fruit is available aplenty in summers. They are sour in taste and hence not preferred by many. This fruit is packed with Vit C. Blend the star fruit in a mixer, add a dash of palm sugar , add crushed ice and serve.

4. Cherries – Cherries are one of the most delightful fruits to come along with the summer heat. Cherries are especially high in polyphenols, a large group of plant chemicals known to help fight cellular damage, reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

5. Zucchini – At 19 calories for a cup, this fiber-filled veggie will keep you feeling fuller, longer. It’s an ideal food to incorporate if you’re looking to shed some pounds as fiber slows food digestion 

6. Curd and buttermilk – High in protein and an probiotic, yogurt forms the perfect summer food to keep you cool. Even buttermilk blended with mint leaves, rock salt forms an excellent hydrating drink.

7. Tomato -Tomato is available all year round. Just beat the tomato in a mixer grinder adding a dash of palm sugar and crushed ice to keep them low in calories or eat as a salad

8. Fennel – Fennel and its seeds are packed with important nutrients, including fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Fennel seeds are also known to boost your metabolism and act as coolant.

9. Berries– Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries are perfect for snacking on hot summer days. They can also be used in smoothies, salads and baked goods. They are rich in Vitamin C and consists of antioxidants.

10. Gooseberry – It is a rich source of vitamin C and fiber. It reverses the aging effects caused by strong sun rays. You can eat them raw or prepare amla juice by adding fresh chopped amlas to a glass of water.

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