Key nutrients for toddlers

Summary

• Food sources include oily fish egg yolks and foods fortified with vitamin D.  Sunlight also helps the body produce this vitamin but the amount needed depends on several factors including skin type and location.
• Good food sources include carrots, pumpkin, broccoli, milk, cheese eggs and red or yellow bell peppers.  Offering a variety of these foods can help children get enough vitamin A.
• Tips Vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, D and K, iron and calcium support different parts of a child’s growth and development.  A varied balanced diet can help meet most nutritional needs.

AI Generated Summary

The first three years of life are important for a child’s physical growth and brain development. However many parents find it difficult to feed children at this age. Some toddlers refuse meals or eat only small amounts making it harder for them to get all the nutrients they need.

Children aged 1 to 3 need a balanced diet with a variety of foods. Offering three meals and two or three healthy snacks throughout the day may help meet their nutritional needs.

A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can affect normal growth and may weaken the body’s ability to fight infections.

Vitamin D for strong bones

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports healthy bones and teeth. Severe deficiency can lead to bone problems and affect a child’s growth.

Food sources include oily fish egg yolks and foods fortified with vitamin D.  Sunlight also helps the body produce this vitamin but the amount needed depends on several factors including skin type and location.