I’m just going to say it: fat’s got a bad reputation. But it’s actually a powerhouse of a macronutrient and it’s particularly important for babies and toddlers. 

That being said, not all fats are created equal. When it comes to your little one, you want to focus on monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats aka “healthy fats.” These are found in foods like avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fish, and eggs and in Little Spoon’s newest Babyblend and Biteable featuring Graza’s EVOO.

Here’s why healthy fats are so incredibly important for your baby and toddler’s development: 

Brain Development 

Healthy fats are essential for brain development. In the early years, your baby’s brain is growing at an astonishing rate. Two-thirds of your baby’s brain is made up of fat and dietary fats play a crucial role in this process. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, support cognitive function and overall brain health. Foods like avocado, flaxseed, and fish (like salmon) are packed with these brain-boosting fats, so, don’t shy away from offering these to your little one.

Your kiddo’s currently in a “no thank you, salmon” phase? Not to worry. Little Spoon recently partnered with Graza, the leading high-end, single strain olive oil brand to develop baby and toddler-friendly meals that are rich in healthy fats. Babies can enjoy the Sweet ‘n Savory Summer Harvest Babyblend made with zucchini, sweet potato, apple + roasted onion with a drizzle of brain-boosting Graza olive oil, while your toddler can try the Mediterranean Style Chicken Bravas smothered in a rich tomato sauce featuring Graza’s “Drizzle” olive oil, plus herby white beans and a sweet potato hash. 

Energy Powerhouse

Let’s face it – toddlers are tiny bundles of endless energy. To keep up with all that running, jumping, and exploring — not to mention the tremendous amount of growth that happens in the first year of life — they need a constant source of energy. Fat is essential for maintaining energy and supporting proper growth and offers a great nutritional bang for your buck. With over double the calories per gram compared to protein and carbohydrates, healthy fats are the slow-burning fuel that will keep your little going throughout the day.  

Nutrient Absorption 

Did you know certain vitamins actually need fat for optimal absorption? Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble, meaning the body uses them better when eaten with fat-containing foods. Therefore, including healthy fats in your baby’s diet ensures they get the most out of these essential vitamins. This means better vision, strong bones, a healthy immune system, and overall better growth. So, drizzle a bit of olive oil on those veggies or add a dollop of nut butter to their oatmeal. It makes a big difference!

The goal for feeding kids is to offer a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Healthy fats are just one piece of the puzzle, but an important one. So, embrace healthy fats and give your little one the best start in life.