You’ve probably seen your child refuse to eat their greens on more than one occasion. It’s not uncommon for toddlers to have an aversion to certain foods, but the negative effects are long-lasting if this trend continues into adulthood.

As parents, we want the best for our children and that includes healthy eating habits from an early age. Getting them accustomed to the taste of different nutritious foods at a young age helps instill these good habits for life.

There is no better time to introduce your toddler to these red-orange veggies than now! These beet and carrot puffs  are wholesome and nutritious – perfect for fussy little eaters!

Why are toddlers reluctant to try new foods?

Toddlers’ food preferences are shaped during the first two years of life when their sense of taste is most receptive to new flavors. Unfortunately, certain foods are more likely to be rejected during this critical period when infants’ palates are forming, particularly those that are bitter or that contain complex flavors.

In addition to these factors, our culture and environment also play a significant role in determining what foods we like and dislike. For example, toddlers from Asian cultures are more likely to dislike bitter foods, such as beets, than those from Western cultures.

The aversion to certain foods can become a long-term eating disorder known as “picky eating.” This fussy eating pattern is a common problem among toddlers and is characterized by an extreme reluctance to try new foods.

How can we get toddlers to eat more beets and carrots?

Beets and carrots are best consumed roasted or baked to make them more appealing to babies and toddlers. Note that raw beets contain oxalic acid, which can be harmful to young children. You can also try these other tips to get your toddler to eat more carrots and beet puffs:

• Try adding them to soups, salads, and stews – these foods are already familiar to toddlers, making them less likely to reject them.
• Carrot and beetroot puree can be used in muffins or cake instead of sugar, making them a healthier option.
• Avoid over-spicing or -sugaring foods, which are often common reasons for toddlers rejecting certain foods.
• You can also give your toddler a choice between foods, such as whole wheat pasta with a beetroot and carrot sauce, or a carrot and beetroot muffin instead of a bagel.

Conclusion

Children who eat fruits and vegetables daily are more likely to grow up with healthier diets and lower rates of obesity. Getting your child to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables can be challenging, but it’s a challenge worth taking on.

Encouraging your child to try new or different foods is a great way to get the nutrients they need to grow and develop properly. These tips will help your child get the daily servings of fruits and vegetables that they need to grow and develop properly.