Significant growth and development occur during the toddler years, and nutrients help fuel that growth. Toddlers need to consume between 1,000 and 1,400 calories per day, with very active toddlers on the higher end of the range. Quality is just as important as quantity when it comes to calories, so be sure that the majority of your toddler's calories come from nutrient-rich foods.
Fat
Fat is particularly important in the first two years of life, when it aids in brain development and growth. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, do not limit fat intake in children under 2 years of age. Once your toddler is older than 2, try to limit her fat intake to about one-third of her total calorie intake. For example, if your toddler consumes about 1,000 calories per day, her daily fat intake should be no more than 300 calories.
Protein
Although high-protein diets are popular among adults, your toddler really doesn't need that much to meet her daily needs. Nonetheless, adequate protein is important during the toddler years since it helps cells multiply and aids in hemoglobin production. About 5 to 20 percent of your toddler's total daily calorie intake should come from protein. For example, if your toddler consumes about 1,000 calories each day, then 50 to 200 of these calories should come from protein sources, or 13 to 50 g.
Carbohydrates
Low-carb diets are also out of the question for toddlers. Between 45 to 65 percent of your toddler's daily calorie intake should come from carbohydrates, which amounts to about 450 to 650 calories for a 1,000-calorie diet, or 113 to 163 g. However, you should monitor the quality of your toddler's carbohydrate intake. A diet that is high in simple, nutrient-poor carbohydrates like baked goods, soda and products made with white, refined flour increases your toddler's chances of developing chronic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.
Water
Toddlers are bundles of energy, and in all their activity they sometimes forget to stop for a drink of water. Toddlers between the ages of 1 and 3 need about 1.3 liters of water every day, according to BabyCenter. This equals between five and six cups daily. For optimal health benefit, limit your toddler's milk consumption to about two cups per day, and avoid excessive juice intake. One glass of juice with breakfast, a glass of milk with lunch and dinner, and water in between meals is enough to keep your toddler hydrated and provide nutrients as well.
