Feeding Your Toddler - Foods To Avoid

Toddlers are picky by nature, but there are some foods you won’t want to feed them until they are much older. The reasons some foods are off limits for toddlers is because of allergies or choking hazards. There are other food additives that should not only be off limit to toddlers. but off limits to adults as well.

Nuts

Nuts should not be fed to your toddler because they are easy to choke on and they also could cause an allergic reaction. There is no reason to give your toddler nuts anyway so do your best to keep them out of the house so your toddler won’t be tempted. Nuts in the shell should also be avoided because they pose a choking hazard. Nuts baked in foods are probably okay in moderation if they are very small, like in cookies. However, if there is any history of nut allergy in your family take the road of caution.

Hot Dogs

Did you know hot dogs are one of the number one foods that toddlers choke on? It’s true, which means as yummy as they may be and as tempting as they are to toddlers, they should not eat them. Some hot dog packages even have a warning on them recommending them for children over the age of 5! That is something to keep in mind. If you do choose to offer your child a hot dog cut it lengthwise and then in bite size pieces. Never feed them a hot dog in its original shape.

Hydrogenated Oils

Hydrogenated oils are one of the most unhealthy things added to foods these days. It is quite shocking that after so much bad press there are companies still using this horrible shelf stabilizer. Always read labels and do not buy cereals, crackers, cookies, cakes, salad dressing, or anything that has this as an ingredient whether it is hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated. There are many supermarkets carrying organic foods and all natural foods that aren’t much more expensive and are considerably healthier. Buy these for your children and you will be giving them the gift of health.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

Another horrible additive is high fructose corn syrup. You will find this is colas, breads, and many other foods. Buy your child all natural fruit juice, whole milk, or simply offer them water. There is no reason for your toddler to be drinking anything with high fructose corn syrup in it. Additionally, the foods with high fructose corn syrup are unhealthy and should be avoided.

Posted in Pregnancy, Toddler Time