When it comes to your toddler’s health, dairy is a superstar! Packed with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins A, D and zinc, dairy supports toddlers’ growth and development in three key ways:
- Dairy Builds Strong Bones: Calcium in dairy helps build strong bones, ensuring your toddler grows strong and sturdy.
- Dairy Enhances Brain Development: The protein and healthy fats in dairy aid brain growth, boosting learning and cognitive development.
- Dairy Is an Immunity Booster: Dairy’s vitamin D and zinc help strengthen your child’s immune system, keeping them active and healthy.
“Dairy provides the building blocks for healthy bones, brain development and a strong immune system during these crucial early years,” says Amanda Crandall, PhD, a nutrition expert at the University of Michigan. “It’s a nutrient-dense option that makes supporting your child’s health easy and effective.”
From smoothies to cheese sticks and yogurt paired with fresh fruit, there are plenty of fun and nutritious options to make snack time or meals easy and balanced.
Looking for ideas? The United Dairy Industry of Michigan/ Milk Means More website is packed with information, tips and recipes for growing families.
Learn more about how to make the best nutrition choices during:
- Your pregnancy
- Your baby’s first six months
- Your baby’s first six-12 months
- Baby’s first 12-24 months
- …and how dairy offers big benefits to your whole family.
For more tips on how dairy supports your family’s health, visit Milk Means More. Check out Metro Parent for more nutrition advice.
