As your toddler grows, you must ensure that the food choices you select nurture their mind and body alike.

Every parent wants the best for their child. And the best way to do that is to make sure that they are nourished through a rich and diverse diet.

As they grow older, their needs start to change and hence, so should their diet.

Many factors influence the type of food you feed your child. One of the most important factors is whether the food item contains artificial ingredients or not—both in terms of taste and health benefits.

Also, as your child starts developing taste buds and becomes more aware of his surroundings, it is important that you provide them with a diverse range of foods which can help them explore and discover new flavors.

1. Avocados

Avocados are an excellent first food for babies. Not only are they super easy to consume, but the fatty and creamy texture is also easy to digest.

The list of health benefits does not stop there! Packed with potassium, folate, omega-3s and magnesium, avocados improve concentration and memory in children.

More importantly, they also reduce the risk of stroke and blood clotting diseases in adults. Their benefits for toddlers are lesser-known.

Besides, they are quite versatile to eat.

2. Eggs

If you ask us, eggs are truly underrated. One of the main nutrients in eggs is choline and protein, which help with brain development.

Choline also helps with memory retention, allowing your toddler to improve in learning and development.

Eggs are a versatile food that can be served in many ways; this will keep things interesting for your toddler.

3. Berries

Berries don’t just taste amazing! They are bursting with antioxidants, which work wonders in improving and boosting brain function.

Berries are also rich in omega-3s and vitamin C. In the long run, berries keep the brain healthy and aid in preventing Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive diseases. 

It also contains antioxidants that ensure brain inflammation stays minimal.

The lack of oxidization of cells enables better coordination and movement, which greatly assists toddlers.

They can be served fresh or whipped into delicious smoothies in summertime.

4. Greek Yogurt

Most parents opt for yogurt for their kids. However, flavoured yogurts may not contain all the nutrients you think they do.

On the other hand, full-fat Greek yogurt is full of nutritious proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Besides, it also has plenty of probiotics that boost gut health.

Iodine is another little-known nutrient in Greek yogurt, and one that promotes good health.

When your brain has enough iodine, focus and concentration improve, which means kids can learn faster, easier and better.

Switch out your flavoured yogurt choices with Greek yogurt instead.

You can always make your own fruit yogurt by adding berries or natural sweeteners like honey.

5. Nuts and Seeds

There really is no better snack than a bag of nuts – and definitely no worse! As long as you make sure your child does not have any allergies. 

Nuts and seeds are a great source of fats, protein and trace minerals, all crucial for brain development.

They also contain many good fats like omega-3s which help to prevent cognitive decline in older adults.

In particular, walnuts are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, folate and Vitamin E.

Are you concerned about nuts being a choking hazard for your child? Many parents are.

Luckily, there is an easy way around this issue. Simply opt for nut butter while your child is still young.

Make sure to opt for natural butter choices that don’t contain artificial preservatives and sugars.

You can even make your own at home!

6. Whole Grains

It is no secret that whole grains are far healthier than white flour.

They are important for the development of muscles and bones.

They are also great for the cardiovascular system and brain health.

The added goodness of whole grains makes your toddler’s and children’s diets healthier, more balanced, and more nutritious.

They also help them avoid brain fog, keeping their brains supplied with the energy needed throughout their day to learn new things and master them in a shorter period of time.