Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician for medical concerns regarding your child.
Snacks and Healthy Options
By 12 months, a toddler’s diet should include a variety of snacks to meet their daily calorie needs of approximately 1000 calories.
What You Need to Know
- The World Health Organization recommends that children aged 1-2 years should have 2-3 main meals and 2-3 snacks in between.
- A toddler needs around 15-20 grams of protein per day, which can be met through a combination of snacks and meals.
- The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that toddlers should have a gap of at least 2 hours between snacks and meals.
- Toddlers should drink around 400-600 ml of milk per day, in addition to other fluids like water and juice.
- The ideal temperature for storing snacks is below 4°C to prevent bacterial growth.
- A snack portion size for a toddler should be around 1/4 to 1/2 cup.
Baby lying in a pink-themed bedroom being fed with a milk bottle. Warm and soft ambiance.The Indian Context: What Research Actually Says
Giving mishri to infants
Region: North India | Verdict: Not recommended
No scientific evidence supports the use of mishri in infants.
Feeding puffed rice to toddlers
Region: East India | Verdict: Recommended
Puffed rice can be a healthy snack option for toddlers if given in moderation.
Giving coconut water to toddlers
Region: South India | Verdict: Recommended
Coconut water can be a healthy beverage option for toddlers, rich in electrolytes.
Feeding khichdi to toddlers
Region: All over India | Verdict: Recommended
Khichdi is a nutritious and easily digestible snack option for toddlers.
Nepali woman cradling a baby in Syapru Besi, capturing warmth and maternal love.Common Myths — Busted
Truth: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 1-2 years should have no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day.
Truth: The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that toddlers should avoid snacks high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, and instead opt for nutrient-dense snacks like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Truth: The World Health Organization recommends that children aged 1-2 years should have a consistent snack schedule, with snacks given at least 2 hours after meals.
When to See Your Paediatrician
- Vomiting after eating a snack
- Diarrhea after eating a snack
- Refusal to eat a snack
- Choking on a snack
A loving mother holding her baby outdoors, showcasing happiness and cultural attire in a summer setting.Parents Also Ask
What are some healthy snack options for my 1 year old?
Some healthy snack options for 1 year olds include fruits like bananas and apples, and vegetables like carrots and cucumbers, with around 100-150 calories per serving.
How often should I give my toddler snacks?
The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that toddlers should have 2-3 snacks per day, spaced out evenly between meals, with around 2-3 hours in between snacks.
Can I give my toddler packaged snacks?
While it’s okay to give your toddler packaged snacks occasionally, it’s recommended to limit them to no more than 1-2 times per week, with around 100-200 calories per serving.
Key Takeaways
- The World Health Organization recommends that children aged 1-2 years should have 2-3 main meals and 2-3 snacks in between.
- A toddler needs around 15-20 grams of protein per day, which can be met through a combination of snacks and meals.
- The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that toddlers should have a gap of at least 2 hours between snacks and meals.
- Toddlers should drink around 400-600 ml of milk per day, in addition to other fluids like water and juice.
Track your baby’s health milestones on the ourlio app.
