Never make the mistake of taking your kid on a diet to help him/her lose weight. Cutting back on the food your child eats can severely impair development. You should incorporate healthy food habits in your kid instead if you wish to help him/her lose weight. You shouldn’t cut back on the calories in a drastic manner as it is bound to have ill-effects on the child’s health.
Here are some foods that should be incorporated in your child’s meals which will help him lose weight. However, remember to consult with your doctor first who will be the best judge in the matters of diet and nutrition for your kid to ensure proper development.
Foods to promote weight loss in toddlers
- Avocados prevent toddlers from feeling hungry as they contain oleic acid. This fruit is very rich in fiber and protein.
- Fruits such as apples, oranges, berries, and kiwi are known to promote weight loss in kids. They are excellent sources of protein and provide a feeling of fullness. Limit the consumption of fruits such a pineapples and bananas (this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t feed your child these fruits at all! It is best to consult your doctor).
- Green leafy vegetables contain a lot of fiber and are low in calories. Spinach and broccoli are known to prevent cancer and are also low in carbohydrates. They also contain a lot of fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.
- Grapefruit can be fed as an afternoon snack and is known to reduce insulin resistance. You can feed your kid a piece of grapefruit before his meal and it will promote a feeling of satiation and fullness.
- It is highly advised to never feed your toddler any weight-loss supplements or drugs as they might affect the health of the child.
- Kids mimic their parents which means it is important for you to follow healthy eating habits too. Do not give your kid aerated drinks. Promote the consumption of fresh juice instead.