Foods That a 14-Month-Old Should Eat

:healthyeating.com

2013/08/06

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As your baby reaches the 14-month mark, she will eat considerably less food than she did when she was younger, which can make it tough to ensure that she is getting the nutrition she needs. Toddlers often don't eat as much as babies do because their growth is slowing and they need less food to sustain their energy. While your toddler might be eating less, include certain foods in her diet so she gets all of the key vitamins and minerals she needs for healthy growth.

Dairy

Dairy foods are among the most important for your 14-month-old. They supply calcium and vitamin D, two nutrients that support the health of your toddler's bones and teeth. Your 14-month-old should drink about 2 cups of milk each day. Serve her whole milk because at this age she needs the fat and cholesterol it contains for healthy brain development. Yogurt and cheese are healthy dairy foods that also supply calcium. One ounce of cheese or 4 ounces of yogurt is an appropriate serving size for a 14-month-old.

Meat and Beans

The protein in meat and beans encourages proper development and also supplies your 14-month-old with the energy she needs to play and learn. Your toddler should eat 2 ounces of protein-rich foods each day. Offer her an ounce or two of lean meat, such as beef, white meat chicken or fish. One hard-boiled or scrambled egg is another healthy source of protein. A 1/4-cup serving of black, navy, kidney or pinto beans also supplies a good amount of protein. Shred meat into tiny pieces and cut beans in halves or quarters to reduce the risk of choking.

Grains

Toddlers need about 3 ounces of grains each day. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that at least half of these grains should be whole. Whole grains supply more fiber than foods made with refined grains and can be lower in sugar. One slice of bread is equal to about 1 ounce. A 1/3-cup serving of breakfast cereal or a 1/4-cup serving of cooked rice, pasta or cereal is equivalent to about 1 ounce.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are among the most nutritious foods to serve your 14-month-old. They supply many of the vitamins and minerals your toddler needs to grow and develop properly. Toddlers need 1 cup of fruit and 1 cup of vegetables as part of their daily diet. Serve chopped, fresh berries, melon, apple slices or pineapple. Kiwi, mango and bananas are healthy choices as well. Chop raw vegetables into small pieces to prevent choking or steam them to make them softer and easier to eat. Carrots, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, squash, peas and green beans are loaded with essential nutrients.