One of the milestones that can cause certain discomfort to both toddlers and parents alike is teething. Since all toddlers develop their primary teeth, some have had to endure discomfort, irritability, and even lose their appetite. Their parents wish to relieve this pain without compromising the nutrients that your toddler needs to grow.
Healthy foods can make a world of difference at this stage, providing a calming effect and essential nutrition. What can you feed your teething toddler then? Below are eight highly-recommended toddler-friendly foods to ease teething pain and make your little one happy and healthy.
1. Mashed Avocados
The creaminess of avocados and their high nutrient density make them great teething foods. They are effective for sensitive gums and high in healthy unsaturated fat, which is an important brain-building nutrient for your toddler. Mix avocado with a small-sized mashed banana or sweet potato to add a bit more flavor and nutrition.
2. Soft Fruits
Bananas, pears, and peaches are the best soft fruits that teething toddlers should have. They can either be mashed or cut into small chunks, which are soft and hence easy to chew.
Bananas are an easy choice, in particular, with their mushy consistency and delicate sweetness. You may also refrigerate them to provide extra relief to sore gums.
3. Toddler Snacks (Teething Biscuits)
While teething biscuits are designed to help with teething pain, they are also great toddler snacks. They can be chewed and are soft enough to massage the gums, giving a comforting effect. Certain brands even provide biscuits with extra vitamins and minerals to increase nutrition.
You can also prepare homemade ones by using ingredients such as whole wheat flour and mashed fruits. These are convenient on-the-go toddler snacks that you can carry easily, making them a great addition to your little one’s daily routine.
4. Yogurt
Fresh and cold, yogurt can provide both wetness and comfort to a toddler who is teething. It contains a high amount of calcium and probiotics that promote bone health and digestion.
Serve it plain or combine it with mashed fruit to add a bit of flavoring. Frozen yogurt is also a favorite of some toddlers, though store-bought varieties tend to have added sugars. Unsweetened or homemade is preferable!
5. Soft Scrambled Eggs
Soft scrambled eggs are also an excellent option to offer to toddlers who are ready to eat more solid foods. They are not hard to chew on the gums, and are full of protein.
Soft veggies or a sprinkle of cheese would also go well with scrambled eggs to add additional flavor and nutrients. Simply, cook the eggs nicely and ensure that they remain moist and soft.
6. Oatmeal
Another soft food to comfort a teething toddler is oatmeal. It is simple to prepare and could be flavored using fruit purees such as apples or peaches.
A pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla will make it taste nicer. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the oatmeal to make it extra-smooth.
Final Thoughts
The appropriate foods can work wonders for a teething toddler. They not only assist in healing the sore gums, but they also supply crucial nutrients to keep your baby healthy. Provide soft, cool, and super-healthy foods that they can eat and enjoy.
A bit of creativity and precaution will help you ensure that teething will be a much easier-to-endure experience for both your toddler and yourself.