Here Are 15 Of The Most Super Foods That Will Supercharge Your Toddlers Growth

Wait, did I notice a few (or more than a few) hands disappear?

No worries, you aren’t alone, but for the developmental sake of our young, we have to get back on the right path.

Keep reading to find out how to do just that.

Shaun Dreisbach compiles a list of foods that we need more of, courtesy of the brilliant advice from Rachel Beller, R.D., founder of Beller Nutritional Institute in Beverly Hills, Ca.

Just like the rest of us, Dreisbach seemingly understands that the road to healthy eating is paved with good intentions.

Click through (hit “next” button) for healthier food choices over those cupcakes and frozen pizza!

Oatmeal
Research shows that kids who eat oatmeal are better able to concentrate and pay attention in school. Fiber-rich whole grains, like oatmeal, digest slowly, providing kids with a steady stream of energy

Fruit
Any fruit is good for your child, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Fruit also has fiber, which keeps kids regular. To reap the nutritional benefits, aim to eat a variety of fruits, like berries, melon, kiwifruit and oranges.

Nuts
Nuts are made up of healthy fats, which kids need for growth and development, as well as for heart health. Having a little bit of “good” fat in the morning gives your kids a burst of energy to keep them going.

Milk
Protein and calcium in dairy products provide fuel for the brain and body. Protein helps build brain tissue, while milk’s calcium keeps kids’ bones and teeth strong.

Blueberries
They’ve ranked among the healthiest fruits for years (go, antioxidants!). Now research suggests that in addition to protecting against heart disease and diabetes and improving brain function, blueberries may also help reduce visceral “toxic” belly fat—a type of fat that has been linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Ways to get them in your kid’s diet: They’re a natural go-with breakfast choice (say, tossed into a bowl of granola and milk) and are also great in summer salads and desserts. Try making ice pops by freezing a blend of whirred-up blueberries, yogurt and some honey (after age 1).

Tofu
“Whole soy foods are an excellent source of lean protein and have potent anti-cancer benefits,” says Beller. “Tofu is great for young girls because it has a protective effect as their bodies and breast tissue are developing—which lasts into adulthood.” Ways to get it in your kid’s diet: Dice and toss tofu into stir-fries or soups; use the silken variety as a sub for yogurt in fruit smoothies; snack on lightly boiled and salted edamame (soybeans)—the kids will have fun popping them out of the shells.

For the other 9 superfoods check out Shaun Driesbach over at parenting.com (click here)

Image credit: Ruth Hartnap