Hummus is a Middle Eastern staple, and many toddlers enjoy the taste and texture of it. The nutrients in hummus make it a healthy addition to your toddler's well-balanced diet, and its versatility allows you to serve it in several ways. You can buy premade hummus at the grocery store, but a homemade version may be healthier because you can control the ingredients.
Ingredients
Traditional hummus contains chickpeas, also called garbanzo beans, as well as garlic, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil. Some commercially prepared hummus products are flavored with roasted red peppers, garlic, olives, pesto or jalapenos. The original flavor of hummus is milder and may be more appetizing to a toddler, but offering different varieties helps you find out which one your toddler prefers.
Nutrients
Hummus contains many nutrients that are beneficial to the health of your toddler, including protein, fiber, potassium, calcium, healthy unsaturated fats and vitamin C. Hummus also provides carbohydrates, iron and magnesium. Adding hummus to a varied meal plan helps ensure that your toddler gets the nutrients she needs to learn, grow and develop.
Health Benefits
Hummus offers your toddler a variety of health benefits because it is a nutrient-dense food. The healthy fats from the olive oil protect his heart by keeping cholesterol in check. Carbohydrates are your toddler's main source of energy, and hummus fuels his body for play. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, and vitamin C protects your toddler's immunity and aids in wound healing. Protein helps build healthy cells and muscles, and magnesium plays a role in heart, muscle, nerve and bone health. Fiber helps regulate digestion, and fiber-rich foods offer appetite control and satiety. Adequate potassium intake is vital for a healthy blood pressure and nerve function, and iron aids in oxygen transport and helps prevent anemia.
Serving Suggestions
The flavor of hummus pairs well with many foods, and your toddler can eat it in many ways. Serve it as a dip with sliced carrots and cucumbers, if your toddler is old enough to eat these vegetables, or with crackers or pita bread. Hummus is a healthy substitute for mayonnaise on sandwiches or wraps or for the tomato sauce on a vegetable pizza. Mix a little hummus into burgers or meatloaf for an extra hit of nutrients and a unique new flavor.
