This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Neighbor News

10 Superfoods for Babies & Toddlers

Because of their rapid growth and development, babies and toddlers need to be fed foods that are packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

Because of their rapid growth and development, babies and toddlers need to be fed foods that are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. These food should also be easy to digest and absorb.

When they are ready for solid foods, these 10 superfoods can help to give babies and toddlers a nutritional edge:

1. Avocado - Avocados are a perfect consistency and contain an abundance of nutrients including high levels healthy fats. You can simply slice open an avocado and feed it straight into your little one. If you would like a smoother consistency add a little milk or substitute and mash.

Find out what's happening in Ramseyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

2. Beans - Beans are super nutritious. They are very high in antioxidants containing 10 times the amount of antioxidants as oranges. They are high in fiber, which prevents your baby from becoming constipated. They are high in iron, protein and B vitamins.

3. Blueberries - Blueberries are super nutritious. They are higher in antioxidants than any other fresh fruit and excellent for a developing brain, urinary and nervous systems, heart and eyes. They are also high in fiber, vitamins A and vitamin C.

Find out what's happening in Ramseyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

4. Coconut - Coconuts contain medium chain fatty acids which have significant health benefits and are similar to the ones found in human breast milk. They help to boost immunity, improve digestion and balance blood sugar.

5. Chia seeds - Chia seeds are higher in antioxidants than blueberries and have more calcium than whole milk. They are very high in omega-3s, magnesium, fiber, iron, potassium and protein.

6. Dark leafy greens - These leafy greens are rich in antioxidants and high in iron and folate. They are a top superfood because they contain large amounts of vitamins C and K, as well as calcium. Vitamin K and calcium are great bone-builders.

7. Eggs (cage-free/organic) - Eggs are full of high quality nutrients for your baby. They contain choline, a B-vitamin that plays an important role in the development and function of the baby’s brain. Eggs are full of protein and omega-3s as well as vitamin D, folate, the antioxidant lutein and many minerals such as zinc, iron, and selenium, which is a great immune booster.

8. Oats - Oats are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber and they are also rich in phytonutrients, vitamin E, zinc, iron, magnesium and selenium. Oats are a good source of protein and a great way to start the morning. Use plain oats and add your own healthy toppings.

9. Quinoa - Quinoa is a complete protein making it perfect for vegetarian . It is high in lysine, an amino acid important for tissue growth and repair. Quinoa has a good amount of fiber and is high in nutrients such as manganese, magnesium and has a very high iron content. Quinoa is a gluten-free grain and is an alternative to whole grain rice in many baby food recipes.

10. Sweet potatoes - Sweet potatoes are among the most nutritious vegetables available. They are rich in phytonutrients and high in vitamins A and C. They have a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture making these vegetables appealing to babies and toddlers.

Click Here For More Information

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Ramsey