23 Months Old Baby Food – Ideas, Chart and Recipes

Your baby is now able to walk, run, climb, and effectively communicate with you. Milestones such as these indicate a change in nutritional requirements as well. Ironically, toddlers who tend to have much more active lives than newborns require fewer calories. However, this does not mean nutrition is not absolutely crucial. As your toddler’s body grows, it needs the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support healthy brain development, strong bones, and an active immune system. Generally, solid foods are introduced when the baby is around six months old, with a gradual increase in variety, flavours, and textures as they grow older. By the age of two, your little one can eat almost anything you can, with some minor exceptions to avoid potential choking hazards or allergens. This article will help you understand the specific food requirements of your toddler, along with a few meal ideas and easy recipes to incorporate into their daily diet.

Video: Food Ideas for 23-Month-Old Baby

Nutrient Requirements for 23 Months Old Child

While the nutrients required by all human beings are basically the same, the quality and proportions differ when it comes to toddlers and young children.

1. Carbohydrates

Carbs or sugars provide energy for metabolic processes, making them an absolute necessity. As your toddler is going through rapid growth and development, reducing carbohydrates at this point is extremely dangerous. Carbs are also used by the brain in order to function.

2. Sodium

Sodium is touted as a dangerous substance in excess, especially those with high blood pressure. But it is also an essential nutrient, as it maintains blood pressure by controlling the buffer levels of blood electrolytes.

3. Fats

Fats, especially from healthy sources, is important in growth, organ development, the formation of nervous tissue and so on. Further, fats like omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, are among the most important dietary nutrients for a growing child.

4. Protein

As you already know, protein is required to build muscles, perform various body functions, act as enzymes, and so on. However, toddlers function better on a high carb low protein diet, as their growth spurts are not imminent at this age.

5. Iron

Iron is required in the formation of blood and efficient functioning of the circulatory system. Deficiency of iron is very common among children across the world. Initially, breastfeeding provides the iron required by the baby, but as they are weaned, they need better sources.

6. Water

Water is not technically a nutrient but is more important than all the others combined. Water acts as a solvent, without which not even a single metabolic reaction can occur in the body. Even the production of proteins, fats and carbohydrates in the body requires water.

7. Fibre

Fibre can be obtained from most carbohydrate-rich whole foods. It regulates the digestive system and helps in easy waste removal from the body.

8. Vitamins

Vitamins are chemical molecules that perform a wide range of bodily functions. They are responsible for blood clotting, skin maintenance, bone growth, energy production, and innumerable other activities.

How Much Food Does a 23 Months Old Toddler Needs?

Toddlers around the age of two, require approximately 1000-1300 calories every day, but this can change based on how active they are. Coming to the other nutrients, per day they require around 1 g of Sodium, 7 mg of iron, 12 g of protein, 140 g of carbs, 19 grams of fibre, 40 g of fat, and around 1.5 litres of water.

Best Foods for Twenty-Three-Old Baby

Here is a list of the best foods for twenty-three-month-old babies:

1. Fruits

Fruits are a delicious snack and come in countless colours, flavours and textures. They provide carbohydrates, antioxidants, fibre, vitamins, minerals and water. These nutrients are great for building the immune system and protecting your baby from infections.

2. Curds

Curds or yoghurt are a great food for children, especially those who find it difficult to process milk or have lactose intolerance. Curds are rich in probiotics, that is healthy intestinal microflora or bacteria. These bacteria are known to strengthen the immune and digestive systems.

3. Grains and Cereals

These foods include rice, wheat, barley, maize, quinoa, ragi, oats, millets and so on. They are great when it comes to energy, as they are rich in complex carbs. Ideally, you should feed your child whole grains, as the refined or processed versions have a lot of the surface nutrients degraded.

4. Veggies

Vegetables, like fruits, provide energy, fibre, minerals, water, fibre and antioxidants. They support metabolic functions as well as protect against diseases. Please ensure you wash them beforehand as there might be pesticides on the skins. Ideally, you should retain the skin as it contains a great deal of the nutrients.

5. Eggs

Eggs are an important source of protein and support your toddler’s growth and development. Eggs also contain important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, Vitamin B12, iron and so on.

6. Lean Meat

Meats are also a great source of protein, much like eggs. In addition to supporting muscle development, lean meats like chicken and fish are rich in selenium, niacin, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, phosphorus, iron and so on.

7. Bread

Bread, preferable the whole-grain kind, is both tasty and nutritious. Brown bread or multigrain bread contain fibre, vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and protein in addition to energy-producing complex carbohydrates.

8. Milk

Milk is considered a whole food, as it is rich in proteins, fats, carbs, minerals, as well as vitamins. Further, the calcium and phosphorus in milk are essential in the formation of teeth and bones.

9. Ghee

Dairy products like ghee have they same properties as milk, but can be used in a variety of ways. Further, ghee can be used by kids with milk allergies, as the allergens, namely casein and lactose, have been removed during preparation.

10. Nuts

Nuts like almonds, cashews, walnuts, and so on are rich in healthy fats, which are essential for growth, development, circulatory health, the functioning of the brain, and so on. Fats also provide some amount of energy in slow-release form.

Video: Diet Plan for a 23-Month-Old-Baby

23 Month Old Baby Food Chart / Meal Plan

Here’s a food chart you can follow for your little one. Do try these toddler food ideas!

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 1

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 2

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 3

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 4

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 5

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 6

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 1, Day 7

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 1

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 2

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 3

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 4

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 5

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 6

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 2, Day 7

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 1

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 2

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 3

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 4

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 5

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 6

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 3, Day 7

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 1

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 2

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 3

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 4

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 5

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 6

Diet for a 23-month-old – Week 4, Day 7

Video: 23 Month Old Baby Food Recipes

Food Recipes for 23 Months Old Baby

Here are a few food recipes for your 23-month-old baby that they will enjoy:

1. Breakfast Cereal

Breakfast cereal is a standard meal that can be varied to provide different flavours.

Ingredients

• Half cup oats
• Half cup milk
• Half cup fruit juice
• One tbsp honey

How to Prepare

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Drizzle honey over the mixture. You can top it with nuts and raisins if you want.

2. Mixed Salad

This is a yummy meal that offers a wide range of health benefits.

Ingredients

• Half cup milk
• 2 tbsp Greek yoghurt
• Half cup berries, diced
• Half cup boiled carrots
• One sliced banana
• One small cube of cheese
• Two tbsp bran

How to Prepare

Boil the milk beforehand. Mix all the ingredients together and toss for even consistency. Add honey or ghee for taste.

3. Bean Rice

This lunch recipe is filling as well as delicious.

Ingredients

• Half cup rice
• Four tbsp cooked rajma beans
• Half cup diced onions and carrots
• Two tbsp milk
• One tsp cinnamon

How to Prepare

Once the rice and beans have been cooked, mix them together. Then add the veggies, milk and cinnamon and mix well. You can also add a small pinch of garam masala, but only if your child can tolerate spices.

4. Macaroni and Cheese

This common recipe is employed around the world, and it is quite simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• Half cup macaroni
• Two tbsp grated cheese
• Half cup chopped veggies like broccoli, bell peppers and carrots
• Half cup milk

How to Prepare

Cook the macaroni until ready. Before it cools, add the cheese and allow it to melt. Then mix in the remaining ingredients until an even consistency is obtained.

5. Chicken Noodles

This non-vegetarian meal is high-protein. You can replace the chicken with vegetarian substitutes like tofu, soybeans, legumes, and so on.

Ingredients

• Half cup chicken, cooked well
• Half cup noodles
• Two tbsp chopped carrots
• Two tbsp shelled green peas
• Half cup Greek yoghurt

How to Prepare

Cook the noodles, carrots and green peas together until ready. Mix in the chicken and yoghurt. You can add a pinch of pepper or turmeric for added flavour.

Feeding Tips

You can follow the below tips while feeding your little one.

• Don’t allow your toddler to have sweet drinks during the day, especially between meals. Water is the preferred choice if they are thirsty.
• Food items which are choking hazards include crisps, whole vegetables, nuts, bony meat, candy, chewing gum, popcorn, ice cubes and so on. If you need to use any of these, make sure they are sliced up well beforehand.
• Ensure your toddler is sitting up while having their meals.
• Allow them to indulge in physical activities as they provide various health benefits.
• It’s fine if your baby spills while drinking. Simply replace their cups with a spill-proof one.
• When serving fruits and veggies, make sure you extract cores, pits, seeds and rough peels.
• Teach your toddler how to take smaller bites and make sure they chew their food properly before swallowing.
• Establish a routine for mealtime, as this will avoid any hunger pangs or eating between meals.
• Please ensure your child does not overeat during their meals, as this can cause weight gain, constipation, and various other complications.
• Encourage your toddler to try different kinds of food, with unique tastes and textures.

FAQs

1. Can my 23-month-old eat the same food as adults?

Yes, by 23 months, most toddlers can eat the same food as adults, but with some modifications. It’s important to ensure that the food is cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking. Also, avoid foods that are too spicy, salty, or contain added sugars. Focus on offering a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

2. How much milk should a 23-month-old drink daily?

At 23 months, toddlers should consume about 16-24 ounces of milk per day. This can be cow’s milk, fortified plant-based alternatives, or breast milk if still nursing. Milk provides important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, but drinking too much can reduce their appetite for solid foods, so balance is key.

3. Is it normal for a 23-month-old to have a decreased appetite?

Yes, it’s common for toddlers around this age to experience fluctuations in their appetite. This is often due to growth spurts, teething, or their newfound independence. Continue offering nutritious meals and snacks, but avoid forcing them to eat. Trust their hunger cues as long as they are growing well.

4. Can I introduce nuts to my 23-month-old?

Yes, you can introduce nuts to your 23-month-old, but it’s crucial to do so safely. Offer nut butter or finely ground nuts rather than whole nuts, which can pose a choking hazard. Nuts are a great source of healthy fats and proteins, but always check for any signs of an allergic reaction when introducing them for the first time.

Children know exactly when and how much they want to eat. As long as they are not too fussy, you should feed them according to their instincts. If they show disinterest, such as pushing away the food, turning their heads, spitting food out, refusing to open their mouth and so on, don’t force them to eat that food at that time. Just like us, babies and toddlers have their own tastes and act on them.

Disclaimer:

1. Each child is different and so use these meal plans as a trusted guide as per your discretion. You can modify the meals according to your child’s preferences / requirements.
2. Never force-feed a child.
3. While preparing formula, please follow the instructions on the box and use the measuring spoon provided with it.
4. While introducing solid food to a baby, initially, one needs to prepare watery gruels/soups. As a child gets older, the caretaker/ mother has to increase the thickness of the liquids slowly according to the child’s capacity to swallow. Foods that are too thick can cause stomach upset/ unnecessary load; while excessively watery food might cause the child to remain hungry.
5. Some kids may eat less on some days and that is absolutely alright. However, if a child eats less for more than 3-4 consecutive days, please visit a doctor to guide further.
6. A child may eat less during the teething phase or if he/she may not be feeling well. You could increase breast milk /formula feeds on those days. Re-introduce the foods once the child is back to normal.
7. Don’t stop feeding if the child is suffering from diarrhoea.
8. You can alter the taste of the food by adding some natural flavours like cinnamon, jeera powder, lemon juice, curry leaves etc. if the child doesn’t accept the food initially.
9. If your child suffers from an allergy to nuts, gluten or eggs, please consult your doctor before feeding him/her any foods that may contain them.

References/Resources:

1. A Dietitian’s Best Advice If Your Child Is Underweight; Cleveland Clinic; https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dietitians-best-advice-child-underweight/

2. Serving Sizes for Toddlers; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/nutrition/Pages/Serving-Sizes-for-Toddlers.aspx

3. Feeding your baby: 1–2 years; UNICEF; https://www.unicef.org/parenting/food-nutrition/feeding-your-baby-1-2-years 

4. Feeding Your 1- to 2-Year-Old; Nemours KidsHealth; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/feed12yr.html

5. Fat: the facts; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/different-fats-nutrition/

6. Mealtime Routines and Tips; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/mealtime/mealtime-routines-and-tips.html

7. How Much and How Often To Feed; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/foods-and-drinks/how-much-and-how-often.html

Also Read:

2 Year (12 to 24 month) Old Baby Food Chart
23 Months Old Baby – Growth and Development
24 Months (2 Year) Old Baby Food – Ideas, Chart, and Recipes

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