A nurse is reinforcing teaching with the parents of a toddler who follows a vegetarian diet about food choices that increase dietary protein intake.Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend as the best choice for including protein in the toddler's diet?

Choice A rationaleDried beans, including varieties like black beans, pinto beans, and navy beans, are a rich source of plant-based protein. They provide essential amino acids necessary for growth and development in toddlers following a vegetarian diet. Incorporating beans into meals helps meet their protein requirements.Choice B rationaleApple slices are primarily a source of carbohydrates, fiber, and some vitamins. They contain very little protein and would not be a significant contributor to increasing the protein intake of a vegetarian toddler.Choice C rationaleGreen peas are a good source of plant-based protein in addition to fiber and vitamins. They offer a higher protein content compared to many other vegetables and can be easily incorporated into a toddler's diet to help meet their protein needs on a vegetarian regimen.Choice D rationaleMashed potatoes are mainly a source of carbohydrates in the form of starch. While they provide energy and some nutrients, they are low in protein and not an ideal food choice for increasing dietary protein intake in a vegetarian toddler. .