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.
Preschooler Nutrition: 2-3 Years
By 2 years, a child’s calorie needs increase by 25% to support rapid growth and development, requiring approximately 1000 calories per day.
What You Need to Know
- A 2-3 year old child requires 10-12 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
- The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, but by 2-3 years, a child should be consuming a variety of foods, including 2-3 servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
- Iron deficiency is common in preschoolers, with the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommending 3-4 milligrams of iron per kilogram of body weight per day.
- A 2-3 year old child should drink approximately 1000-1200 milliliters of water per day, depending on climate and activity level.
- The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that preschoolers engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day.
- By 2-3 years, a child’s weight should have tripled from birth, with an average weight gain of 2-3 kilograms per year.
The Indian Context: What Research Actually Says
Giving ghee to preschoolers
Region: North India | Verdict: May be beneficial in moderation, but consult a paediatrician before adding to a child’s diet.
Some studies suggest that ghee may have health benefits, but more research is needed.
Feeding ragi to preschoolers
Region: South India | Verdict: Recommended as a nutritious and healthy food option.
Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, and protein, making it a nutritious food for preschoolers.
Giving tulsi to preschoolers
Region: East India | Verdict: May be beneficial in moderation, but consult a paediatrician before adding to a child’s diet.
Some studies suggest that tulsi may have immune-boosting properties, but more research is needed.
Feeding chana to preschoolers
Region: West India | Verdict: Recommended as a nutritious and healthy food option.
Chana is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious food for preschoolers.
Common Myths — Busted
Truth: The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that preschoolers consume no more than 10% of their daily calories from added sugars, which is approximately 25 grams per day.
Truth: The World Health Organization recommends that preschoolers drink no more than 150 milliliters of 100% fruit juice per day, and instead encourages whole fruits and vegetables.
Truth: The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that preschoolers consume no more than 20-30% of their daily calories from fat, which is approximately 20-30 grams per day.
When to See Your Paediatrician
- Failure to gain weight
- Short stature
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Vitamin D deficiency
Parents Also Ask
How much milk should I give my 2 year old per day?
The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends 500-600 milliliters of milk per day for 2-3 year olds, depending on their individual calorie needs.
What are some healthy snack options for preschoolers?
Some healthy snack options for preschoolers include fruits, vegetables, whole grain crackers, and nuts, with approximately 100-150 calories per snack being a good guideline.
How often should I take my preschooler to the paediatrician?
The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends regular check-ups with a paediatrician every 3-6 months for preschoolers, depending on their individual health needs.
Key Takeaways
- A 2-3 year old child requires 10-12 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
- The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, but by 2-3 years, a child should be consuming a variety of foods, including 2-3 servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
- Iron deficiency is common in preschoolers, with the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommending 3-4 milligrams of iron per kilogram of body weight per day.
- A 2-3 year old child should drink approximately 1000-1200 milliliters of water per day, depending on climate and activity level.
Track your baby’s health milestones on the ourlio app.
