11 Healthy Foods for Toddlers to Gain Weight 

Last reviewed: November 6, 2026. Checked against current guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In this article we will discuss 11 of the best healthy foods for toddlers to gain weight. These foods are packed with nutrients and protein, and they will help your child reach their optimal weight. If you are worried about your toddler’s weight, talk to your pediatrician first. A child who is growing well along their own curve is usually getting enough to eat.

Combination of Breast Milk and Formula Milk

If you are still breastfeeding, breast milk continues to give your toddler nutrients and calories. After 12 months, most toddlers don’t need formula, and the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend toddler milks. Plain, pasteurized whole cow’s milk is a good choice for most children from 12 months to 2 years, about 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) a day. At this age, food, not milk, should be the main source of nutrition. Too much milk or juice can fill your toddler up so they eat less food. Consult your child’s pediatrician if your toddler has a milk allergy or needs a special formula.

Oatmeal

There are many benefits to feeding oatmeal to toddlers. Oatmeal is a whole grain, and it is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It also has some protein. Oatmeal can help a toddler’s digestive system function properly, and it can also help regulate blood sugar levels. To add calories, cook it with whole milk and stir in mashed banana or a thin swirl of nut butter. All of these factors make oatmeal a healthy and nutritious food for toddlers.

Bananas

Bananas are a great food for toddlers. They are packed with nutrients, easy to eat, and relatively inexpensive.

When shopping for bananas, look for ones that are yellow with brown spots. These are the ripe ones and will be the sweetest. Green bananas are less ripe and less sweet, and they are harder for little ones to chew. It is also important to make sure the bananas are not overripe, as they can be mushy and hard to eat.

There are many ways to serve bananas to toddlers. They can be eaten plain, mashed, in a smoothie, or even baked into banana bread. No matter how they are served, bananas are a nutritious and delicious snack for toddlers.

Avocados

Avocados are a nutritious fruit that can be introduced to toddlers as part of a healthy diet. Avocados are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, and folate. They also contain healthy fats that can help promote brain development in young children.

When introducing avocados to toddlers, it is important to start with a small amount and increase gradually as tolerated. Avocados can be served in the following ways;

• Mashed
• Diced
• Sliced
• Avocados can also be added to a variety of foods, such as salads, soups, and sauces.

Eggs for Toddlers

When it comes to feeding your toddler, eggs are a great option. They’re packed with nutrients, easy to make, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Plus, they’re a food that most toddlers seem to enjoy. You don’t need to start with the yolk only. Whole, well-cooked eggs can be offered from when your baby starts solids, and offering eggs early may help lower the chance of an egg allergy.

Always cook eggs until the yolk and white are firm. Scrambled eggs are a good option, as they can be cooked quickly. For a toddler who needs to gain weight, cooking them in a little butter or olive oil adds healthy calories. Boiled or poached eggs are also good choices.

Yogurt for Toddlers

When it comes to yogurt, there are a lot of options available for toddlers. However, not all yogurt is created equal, and some types may be better suited for your toddler than others. Here is a look at some of the best yogurts for toddlers, as well as some tips on how to choose the right yogurt for your little one.

When it comes to the actual yogurt itself, you’ll want to choose one that is low in sugar and contains live and active cultures. These cultures can help promote a healthy digestive system, which is important for toddlers.

Another thing you’ll want to look for when choosing yogurt for your toddler is the type of milk it is made from. Whole milk yogurt is going to be the most nutritious option, as it contains all of the nutrients that milk has to offer. However, if your toddler is lactose intolerant or has a milk allergy, ask your pediatrician about alternatives. Soy yogurt has more protein than most other plant-based yogurts.

Salmon for Toddlers

Toddlers need plenty of protein to support their growing bodies, and salmon is a great option. It’s packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium. Salmon is a fatty fish, so it also gives your toddler healthy calories. It is also low in mercury, which makes it a good fish choice for young children. And be sure to cook it thoroughly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, and check carefully for bones.

Salmon can be a bit pricey, but you can save money by buying it in bulk or frozen. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then cook it as you would fresh salmon. Toddlers will love the taste of salmon, and you’ll love knowing they’re getting all the nutrients they need.

Sweet Potato for Toddlers

When it comes to super foods, sweet potatoes are hard to beat. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are one of the best foods you can give your toddler. And they’re incredibly versatile, too – they can be baked, roasted, mashed, or even made into delicious fries. It’s no wonder they’re a favorite with parents and kids alike!

Beans for Toddlers

When it comes to beans, there are a lot of different types that can be great for your little one. Beans are a good source of protein and fiber, and they can be a healthy way to add some variety to your child’s diet.

There are a few things to keep in mind when feeding beans to your toddler. First, it’s important to cook them thoroughly. Beans can contain toxins that can make your child sick if they’re not cooked properly. Second, mash beans or lightly squash them so that your toddler doesn’t choke on them.

Here are some great beans to try feeding your toddler:

• Black beans
• Kidney beans
• White beans

Peas for Toddlers

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious way to add more vegetables to your toddler’s diet, peas are a great option! Peas are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and they’re easy for little ones to eat once they are cooked soft and lightly mashed. Plus, they can be cooked in a variety of ways to suit your toddler’s taste.

Full Fat Pasteurized Cheese for Toddlers

Full Fat Pasteurized Cheese for Toddlers is a great way to get your little one the nutrients they need. Cheese is packed with protein, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a delicious way to help them learn to self-feed.

Chunks of cheese and string cheese can be a choking hazard. Serve cheese shredded, melted, or in thin slices or very small pieces. Plus, it’s a great source of the nutrients they need to grow and develop.

Whatever you serve, have your toddler eat sitting down while you watch. Keep foods like whole grapes, nuts, popcorn and chunks of peanut butter away from young children. Offer three meals and two or three snacks a day, and let your child decide how much to eat. Pushing food often backfires. If your toddler is losing weight, is not gaining weight, or seems unwell, see your pediatrician.

This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Always contact your pediatrician with questions about your baby’s health.