How much fiber does my toddler need?
According to the Institute of Medicine (IOM), young toddlers aged 1-3 years should target an Adequate Intake (AI) of 19 grams per day, and older toddlers and children aged 4-8 years can meet their AI with 25 grams of fiber per day.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests a minimum fiber intake using a simple equation of the child’s current age + 5; a 3 year old would need to consume 8 grams of fiber per day minimally. Eating enough fiber every day has its benefits: regular bowel movements and a lower incidence of constipation, achieving a healthy body weight, and reducing the chances of Type 2 diabetes. Help your toddler meet his or her fiber needs by including whole grain breads and cereals, a variety of fresh and dried fruit, vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds.
Reviewed by Dr. Sara Connolly, August 2019
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