DiscoverFood for Tot: Feed Your Baby and Toddler with ConfidenceThe Truth About Sugar for Babies and Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know
The Truth About Sugar for Babies and Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know

The Truth About Sugar for Babies and Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know

Update: 2025-09-08
Share

Description

Sugar is one of the most confusing and emotional topics for parents—especially when it comes to feeding babies and toddlers. 

In this episode, Kathy explains everything you need to know about sugar for little ones, from the research-backed recommendation to avoid added sugar under age two to how to build a balanced and healthy relationship with sweets after the second birthday. You’ll learn why sugar can crowd out essential nutrients in young children’s diets, how early exposure shapes taste preferences, and practical strategies to help parents set boundaries without creating restriction or obsession.

Tune in to hear:

  • Why babies under 2 should avoid added sugar—and what counts as added sugar.
  • How early exposure to sweet foods shapes taste preferences for life.
  • Practical swaps and label-reading tips to keep your child nourished without stressing over perfection.
  • What to do about birthday cake, bread, and common foods with hidden sugar.
  • The difference between natural sugars (like fruit) and added sugars.
  • How to normalize sugar after age 2 so it’s not a forbidden food.
  • Why using sweets as rewards or bribes backfires—and what to do instead.
  • Real-life examples from Kathy’s own experience as a mom (from birthday cupcakes to cruise ship ice cream).

Register for My Free Feeding Toddlers Live Training on 9/16

Doors Open for the Mini Me Method - Apply Now

Connect with Kathy:

@theminimedietitian

Website: https://theminimedietitian.com/

Grab my free Top Tips for Feeding Toddlers Guide

Comments 
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

The Truth About Sugar for Babies and Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know

The Truth About Sugar for Babies and Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know

Kathy O'Bryan