The Best Things to Add to a Spinach Smoothie for Toddlers

The toddler years are a time of independence and exploration, making mealtime the perfect opportunity for toddlers to express their preferences. While learning about your toddler̵7;s likes and dislikes can be exciting and entertaining -- ketchup and cookies, anyone? -- it may also be challenging to make sure your little one is eating healthy and nutritious food. Iron-rich spinach is a great first ingredient for smoothies. Add other healthy ingredients and tailor the smoothies to your toddler̵7;s taste.

  1. Dairy or Soy

    • Dairy, such as low-fat milk or low-fat yogurt, provides the perfect liquid for a smoothie. Toddlers should eat two or three 8-ounce servings of dairy each day, suggests the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dairy provides protein, which helps toddlers build strong muscles, and calcium, which is important to the healthy growth of teeth and bones. Milk and yogurt also contain vitamins A and D, both necessary for healthy vision and strong bones. Fortified soy milk and or soy yogurt can be used as a substitute for dairy.

    Fruit

    • Adding a handful of fruit is a great way to help your toddler meet her five-a-day recommendation for fruits and vegetables, says Cleveland Clinic Children's. The natural sugar in fruit sweetens the smoothie while the vitamins and minerals can help your toddler grow strong and healthy. Fruit contains fiber, which contributes to feelings of fullness and promotes regular bowel movements. Smoothies are a great opportunity to disguise foods that your toddler doesn̵7;t like to eat on their own. Throw in bananas, blueberries, strawberries or any other fruit you think your toddler might like -- or that you would like her to try.

    Fat

    • Don̵7;t forget to add some healthy fat to your toddler̵7;s diet; it's essential to brain growth and development, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Healthy fat should make up about one-third of a toddler̵7;s daily intake. Good sources include avocados, peanut butter and flaxseed oil. Fat thickens the smoothie, so add some water or a bit of ice if you want to thin it out.

    Whole Grains

    • Whole grains are carbohydrates that provide fiber, along with essential vitamins and minerals. Whole grains don't cause spikes and drops in blood sugar like simple carbs. Imagine your toddler after she eats a lot of candy: first excitement and energy, followed shortly by a meltdown. Fiber-rich whole grains release energy slowly, ensuring that your toddler has a a steady and even stream of energy between meals. Whole grains are also a good source of protein, iron and B vitamins. Add some cooked oats, brown rice or barley to your toddler̵7;s smoothie.

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