How much should a Toddler Eat? This is a question that befuddles many moms, so decided to tackle this issue today.

According to the American Association of Pediatrics ” Each day, a child between the ages of 1 and 3 needs 40 calories for every inch of height ”

But feeding according to calorie intake is very tiring for toddlers as they eat only at their own whims and fancies 🙁

So I have compiled a chart that can be used as guide for as how much should a toddler eat every day? . If one day your toddler is not sticking by it, don’t worry, if you can stick by it most of the days then it should be fine.

Also read  How to Feed Your Fussy Toddler?

How much should a Toddler Eat?

Each child is different with unique build and tastes so always follow your toddler cues as what to feed them.

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Daily servings for Toddlers

Grain – 3 to 4 servings

Vegetable – 2 to 3 servings

Fruit – 3 to 4 servings

Dairy  – 4 to 5 servings

Protein – 2 servings

How much is One serving for a toddler?

The serving size for a toddler depend on the build and activity level. It should be approximately one fourth of an adult Servings.

1. How much is one serving of Grains for toddler?

One serving equals to any one of the following

• Cereal or Cooked Rice – 1/4 to 1/2 cup.
• Whole Wheat Bread – 1 slice.
• Wheat or Rice based Porridge – 1/4 to 1/2 cup.
• Roti/Paratha/Pancake – 1 small one.
• Dosa/Idli – 1 small one.

2. How much is one serving of Vegetables for a toddler?

One serving equals to

• 2 to 3 tablespoon cooked vegetables in Curries, Khichdi, stir fry veggies or 1 tablespoon for each age.

3. How much is one serving of Fruits for a toddler?

One serving equals to

• 1 or 1/2 whole fruit as raw, steamed.
• 1/4 cup of 100% juices.

4. How much is one serving of Dairy for a toddler?

One serving equals to

• 1/2 cup milk or 1/2 cup yoghurt.
• Cheese 1 inch cube.
• Paneer 50 gms.

5. How much is one serving of Proteins for a toddler?

One serving of proteins equals to anyone of the following

• 20 – 30 gm of meat.
• 1 egg
• 4 to 5 tablespoon cooked lentils in Dal, Khichdi and curries.

These are just guidelines and you don’t have to be very strict in following this regime. Make sure the toddler diet is balanced and he is eating equal amounts of all foods. Healthy snacks can be given 2 to 3 times a day.

Encourage your toddler to communicate when his tummy is full and stop feeding at that. Never bribe or show television to make toddlers to eat. It destroys their future healthy eating habit.

Are you concerned about your toddler’s eating habits, do let us know about it.

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References

1. American Association of Pediatrics.

2. Making sure your child is eating enough.

3. Portions and serving sizes for toddlers.