Top 10 Best Foods for Your Preschooler’s Nutrition

It’s important to you that your preschooler is eating the right foods, and it should be! Eating the right foods now will start your preschooler out on the right track for a healthy life. But with all of the food options out there, how do you know what the best things are for your child? By reading this list of the top 10 best foods for your preschooler’s nutrition!

1. FRESH FRUIT

Okay, so fruit isn’t exactly a specific food, but we couldn’t list just one because so many fruits are important to your preschooler’s nutrition. Fruit is an important source of vitamins and minerals such as, folate, vitamin c, and potassium.

Fruit is also an important source of fiber, helping to prevent constipation. For a list of some of the best fruits for your preschooler, as well as some awesome recipe ideas to make with them, check out Yummy Toddler Food.

2.VEGGIES

Again, not exactly specific, but so important! Your preschooler needs a cup of vegetables every day to stay healthy. Vegetables contain important nutrients that help build your preschooler’s immune system, give them energy, and even help their eyesight.

Having a hard time getting your preschooler to eat their vegetables? Check out these tips for helping your child eat their vegetables.

3. EGGS

An apple a day may keep the doctor away…But what about an egg a day? Your preschooler shouldn’t have more than 7 eggs a week, because they are high in cholesterol, but consumed in a healthy amount eggs:

• Are a great source of protein, at 6 grams each
• Contain Amino Acids, aiding in healthy hair and nail growth
• Are loaded with B12, important for the brain and nervous system
• Contain folic acid, which creates healthy red blood cells

4. YOGURT

Yogurt is high in calcium and protein, and perfect for helping your preschooler build strong bones. Picking a yogurt with the right nutritional benefits without all the added sugars can be tough, and getting your child to eat them once you do find them can be even tougher.

For a list of healthy yogurts your preschooler will actually love, check out Today’s Parent.

5. PEANUT BUTTER

Kids love peanut butter, and the great news is, it’s good for them! Peanut butter contains fats that are considered heart healthy, and is high in protein. It’s best to avoid peanut butters that contain trans fats, so try to stay away from anything containing hydrogenated oils.

Want to make sure you’re getting the best peanut butter for your preschooler? Make a batch at home! Head over to Love & Lemons to see how easy it is.

6. CHICKEN

White meat chicken is a great source of lean meat for your preschooler. Lean meats have a lower fat content than other meats, making them a better option for your child. Chicken is loaded with protein, and is great for the heart.

Check out these super yummy chicken recipes for kids that your whole family is going to want to try.

7. FISH

Fish is another high source of protein, and it’s also a great source of healthy fats. Healthy fats are important for your preschooler’s brain, nervous system, and eyesight.

The FDA has a list of the safest fish for your preschooler to eat, and how much is safe for them to consume. You should check it out if you have any concerns about your preschooler consuming fish containing mercury.

8. BEANS

Beans are a great source of plant based protein, making them an especially good source of nutrition for children who tend to turn their noses up to meat. Beans also help regulate blood sugar, and can even help reduce mood swings due to all the nutrients they’re full of!

9. WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL/OATMEAL

Whole grains help provide your preschooler with energy, so what better time to load up with whole grains then breakfast? Whole grain foods contain the entire grain, including the germ and bran, which is removed in processed white grains. Consuming whole grain foods can help your preschooler maintain energy and keep their bellies feeling full longer.

10. LEAN RED MEAT

Red meat should be mixed into your preschooler’s diet carefully. A diet of too much red meat can cause constipation, due to low fiber intake, and the wrong red meats are loaded with saturated fats. So when is red meat good?

When shopping for red meats, it’s important to look for words like “loin” or “round.” These cuts contain the least amount of fats, and are a great source of protein. When purchasing ground beef, try to find meat that is 95% lean.