Every parent’s first priority are their child’s health. They do everything they can to teach their little ones from a young age how to develop a healthy lifestyle in order to maintain their wellbeing at all times.

One aspect many parents struggle with when it comes to their children is nutrition. Getting toddlers to eat healthy foods can sometimes feel like fighting an uphill battle especially when certain food groups which the kids may not like are included. In most cases, it is vegetables the parents are having the hardest time with. In fact, the leafier and greener the veggie is, the greater the struggle.

However, the benefits of eating veggies cannot be underestimated. There are numerous types of vegetables for kids to munch on that can do wonders for your little ones’ health and help them grow strong and well. Take a look at the five reasons why vegetables are so important and how they actually do this. 

Highly rich in various nutrients

Vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories and highly rich in numerous vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are vital for the overall health of your child. Some of the most notable ones include potassium, folate, dietary fiber and vitamins A and C. Each of these nutrients has its own benefits and can be found in vegetables of all colors, textures and varieties.

For example, spinach is a great source of vitamins, iron, calcium and antioxidants. Because of these nutrients, this leafy green veggie is especially important for developing strong bones in kids.

Ensure proper growth and development

Another great benefit of including vegetables in your toddler’s diet is that they ensure proper physical and mental growth. This is due to the presence of various nutrients that help your child maintain their entire body’s health as well as boost their brainpower.

For example, leafy veggies such as kale, cabbage and arugula that are rich in vitamins C and K, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium are superstars for promoting proper development in your toddler.

More specifically, vitamin K is necessary to increase bone density that supports enhanced growth and helps maintain your child’s weight.

Provide energy

Although vegetables aren’t considered high-carb foods, some of them contain enough complex carbs and calories that can provide your toddler with energy. One of the most notable ones is potatoes as they are high in fiber and great sources of carbohydrates which offer sustained energy throughout the day.

Also, leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale can also promote energy due to the high presence of iron, magnesium, potassium and vitamins A, C, E and K. Out of all of these nutrients, it is important to improve any iron deficiency your toddler might have and provide them with lots of energy.

Strengthen the immune system

Unfortunately, young kids are usually prone to getting sick which weakens their immune system and makes them more vulnerable to developing various health conditions. This is where vegetables can come in handy as they can help ward off diseases and improve your toddler’s overall wellbeing.

For example, red bell peppers, spinach and broccoli are highly rich in vitamin C and other essential nutrients which not only boost your toddler’s immune system by fighting infections but also benefit their health in many ways. Some of the most important ones include healthier skin and eyes.

Tips to encourage your kid to eat more vegetables

If you are having trouble encouraging your toddler to eat more vegetables, there are a few ways you can help change that.

For example, start by getting your child involved in cooking with vegetables. Next time you go grocery shopping, you can ask your little ones to choose the veggies they would like to include in the next meal.

Another helpful way to encourage your children to eat more vegetables is to offer them as snacks. Kids love chopped cucumber and carrots so you can give them slices to snack on instead of any other unhealthy foods you would usually give them.

Final thoughts

Although vegetables are probably children’s least favorite food group, they offer many benefits that contribute to the overall physical and mental growth of toddlers. They are rich in numerous nutrients that help children grow to be strong and healthy and protect them from developing various health conditions.

Even if your little one isn’t very keen on eating veggies, there are many ways you help change that and instantly improve your child’s health. For more help, use our guide as a reminder and help your little one develop healthy eating habits in no time.