As an innovative company finding ways for Americans to receive affordable, high quality health care coverage, Cinergy Health promotes the goal of healthy living for the entire family — and that starts with healthy eating at the toddler stage.

One way to help promote your toddler’s good eating habits is to ensure that you are eating nutritious food too. Young children aim to imitate their parents in every way, so if they see you eating your veggies then they’ll want some too. It is also important to give your toddler a choice of healthy foods. That way, he can still assert his independence, but no matter which choice he makes, the food he eats will be a good one. You can also incorporate fruits and vegetables into other foods such as muffins, pancakes, spaghetti sauces and casseroles to help incorporate them into your toddler’s diet. Toddlers may also prefer cut-up fruits and veggies that they can eat “on the go.” Because as everyone knows, no toddler can sit still for long!

However, babies usually start out with a little padding, and this is completely normal. Babies need this extra fat for warmth, energy and development. It is important never to keep your child on a low-calorie diet or low-fat diet. A visit to a doctor will help you put your mind at ease without accidentally harming your baby or his development.

Babies gain weight very quickly during their first few months of life. If you are concerned about keeping your baby’s weight healthy, many doctors advise breast feeding for at least the first six months. Studies have shown that children who were breastfed are less likely to become obese later in life. Another thing to make sure to do is only feed your baby when he’s hungry. Parents often feed their baby as a means to stop their crying, and this can definitely cause unnecessary weight gain. Fruit juices are also not recommended, because they are full of sugars and calories but lack the vitamins and minerals that real fruit has. Try pureed fruit instead. Physical activity is also very healthy for your baby. Even if your baby has not yet learned to walk, let him have more time in an open space (not a crib) so he can roll and stretch his arms and legs. Help your baby sit and stand when ready, and encourage the use of “bouncy chairs” and walkers.