Toddler Nutrition Pyramid

(Ages 1 - 2 years)

The Basic Five Food Groups within The Toddler Nutrition Pyramid

Instead of the typical serving sizes, grains are now commonly measured out in one ounce equivalents. Examples of common one ounce grain equivalent equals:

• 1 slice bread
• 1/2 cup cooked hot cereal
• 1/2 cup cooked rice or pasta
• 1 ounce (3/4 cup) cold cereal

A toddler needs 2 one ounce equivalents each day. Split up amount required for total day between meals and snacks. A typical serving size at meal or snack time is 1/3 to 1/2 of a one ounce grain equivalent.

About 1/2 of the grains should be from whole grains.

Vegetables: Key nutrients are vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid, magnesium and fiber.

Vegetable servings are measured in cups.

Example of 1 cup equivalents are the following:

• 1 cup raw or cooked vegetables
• 2 cups raw leafy vegetables
• 6 ounces vegetable juice
• 1 medium potato
• 1 large tomato
• 12 baby carrots

A toddler needs approximately 3/4 cup each day. Divide up and offer throughout the day with meals and snacks. A typical serving size to offer at meal and snack time is 1/4 cup.

Offer vegetables in a variety of colors to ensure a wide assortment of nutrients.

Fruits: Key nutrients are vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and fiber

Fruits are measured in cups.

Examples of 1 cup fruit equivalent equals the following:

• 1 medium piece of fruit
• 1 cup fresh, frozen or canned fruit
• 6-8 ounces 100% fruit juice
• 1/2 cup dried fruit

A toddler needs 1 cup each day. Divide up and offer throughout the day with meals and snacks. A typical serving size to offer at meal or snack time is 1/4 cup.

Dairy/Dairy Products: Key nutrients are calcium, riboflavin and protein Toddlers need 2 cups each day. Divide between meals and snacks daily. A typical serving size to offer at meal and snack time is 1/2 cup - 3/4 cup.

Common substitutes/equivalents are the following:

• 1-1/2 ounces natural cheese or 2 ounces processed cheese
• 1/3 cup shredded cheese
• 1 cup yogurt

Meats are measured in one ounce or ounce equivalents.

Common one ounce equivalents equals:

• 1 ounce meat, poultry or fish
• 1/4 cup dry beans or baked beans
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• A small handful (1/2 ounce) of nuts or seeds
• 1/4 cup tofu
• 2 tablespoons hummus

A toddler needs 1 to 2 ounce equivalents each day. Divide between meals and snacks. A typical serving size to offer at meal and snack time is approximately 1/2 to 1 one ounce equivalent.

Fats should not be restricted under the age of two years.

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