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Focus On Nutrition
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Previously Asked Questions
Question |
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I am concerned about my 2 year-old choking on foods I give him. What foods should I specifically avoid?
Answer
While most bite-sized foods seem like ideal choices to feed your toddler, many can be potential choking hazards. Children develop their swallowing reflexes and abilities to handle different sizes and textures of foods during their first few years of life. Until about age 4, the following foods are among those that should be avoided:
- Popcorn
- Hard candies
- Chewing gum
- Nuts
- Raw carrots, beans, apples or pears
- Raisins
- Whole grapes, whole berries, cherries with pits
- Whole olives
- Potato chips
- Hot dogs
Safer choices for your toddler can include bite-sized pieces of fruit, including sliced grapes (sliced length-wise) and apple slices without the peel, pieces of granola bar, yogurt, sliced cheese, and steamed veggies. Make sure to keep your child upright, and never leave him unattended while he is eating. Consider taking a CPR class to prepare you for potential choking incidents, and keep emergency information updated and handy.
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