Extra eats! 5 toddler snacks with secret hidden health benefits
If you’re keen to get nutritionally strategic with your toddler’s snacks while still serving up delicious and fun foods and drinks, then we’ve rounded up some SUPER places to start.
Here are six toddler-friendly snacks with secret health benefits you can get into the diet of even the fussiest of eaters:
1. Avocados
How nifty are avocados? A portable and delicious delight that can transform from toddler snack to the more grown-up guacamole faster than you can say “do you like coriander?”
For a brilliant toddler snack in an instant, you simply slice and scoop into a bowl straight up OR you can smoosh it onto wholemeal toast or rice crackers for some extra pizazz.
So what are these super powers we speak of? Well avocado is not only loaded with fibre, potassium and vitamin E, it also contains a healthy dose of folate too! Zing!
2. Hommus
Who knew the humble chickpea could get so deliciously fancy in the right company? Hommus – the more-ish dip made from whizzed up chickpeas and tahini – is very good to eat AND it’s loaded with wholesome minerals and vitamins too.
Pop some alongside your toddler’s steamed veggies or spread on a rice cake and you’re spreading a little vitamin C, vitamin B6 and vitamin E too! Super, right?
3. Blueberries
These little guys pack a big punch when it comes to inflammation-busting and protective anti-oxidants. Blueberries are also loaded with vitamin C, vitamin B5 and fibre … and they’re the perfect on-the-go super snack too! Remember to chop blueberries in half to make them a breeze for toddlers to chew and swallow.
4. Yoghurt
A well-chosen yoghurt comes with a bunch of brilliant super powers that help toddlers and preschoolers thrive. Natural yoghurt – snaffle one that is free from added sugar – contains probiotics to keep little bodies healthy and calcium for strong bones and teeth too! Top yoghurt with berries, freeze it into delish popsicles or plonk into a smoothie to mix things up for your little one.
5. Oats
Did you know that breakfast porridge is loaded with a bonkers amount of healthy minerals and vitamins? Oats also contain helpful antioxidants, help keep little tummies full AND are easy to digest.
It’s a win-win-win-win with this toddler-friendly super snack! Pile on some fresh fruit and you take things to the next delicious and nutritious level. Add yoghurt and you’re knocking it out of the park, mums and dads!