Adequate protein intake plays a significant role in childrens' health and development. Some kids may not be able to get enough protein from diet alone, in which case your doctor might recommend a supplement. Too much protein can also affect growth, so don't give your child a protein supplement or any other kind of supplement without talking to your doctor.
Recommended Daily Intake
Daily protein requirements vary based on your child's age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children ages 1 to 3 need 13 grams of protein each day. Children 4 to 8 need 19 grams, and kids ages 9 to 13 require 34 grams. During adolescence, protein requirements also vary based on gender. Girls ages 14 to 18 need 46 grams of protein each day, and boys ages 14 to 18 require 52 grams of protein daily. Generally speaking, 10 percent to 35 percent of your child's overall calorie intake each day should come from protein.
When to Use a Supplement
Although severe protein deficiencies are not common in the United States, some kids might have mild protein deficiencies and may benefit from taking a supplement. Signs of protein deficiency include slow growth, thinning hair or slow hair growth, soft or peeling nails, anemia, thyroid problems, fatigue, pale and thin skin, slow onset of puberty, lethargy and muscle weakness, according to Judy Converse's book, "Special-Needs Kids Go Pharm-Free." Children with food allergies are more likely to develop protein deficiencies. Discuss symptoms with your doctor and obtain a nutritional assessment to determine whether your child needs a supplement.
Choosing a Supplement
Whey protein powder is a high-protein source produced by distilling milk. It contains alpha-lactalbumin, a substance also found in human breast milk, which is why it is often used in infant formulas. Although some children with allergies may not be able to tolerate whey powder, it is usually well-tolerated due to the high amount of distillation. Add protein powder to shakes, smoothies and soft foods. Avoid whey powders that contain large amounts of sweeteners, and choose one with a mild flavor, so you can add it to a wider variety of foods.
Dietary Intake
Most Americans get enough protein, and high-protein diets are not recommended for children, according to the Nemours Foundation. Your child should get as much protein as possible from food sources. Animal products are the best sources of protein, but you can also combine plant foods, like beans and whole-grain rice, in order to get a complete, high-quality protein. In the toddler years, protein requirements are actually very minimal. For example, American Family Physician recommends that toddlers consume 2 to 3 cups of milk or other dairy products each day in order to obtain enough protein.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Protein
- Judy Converse; "Special Needs Kids Go Pharm-Free"; 2010
- Whey Protein Institute: Whey Protein FAQs
- Kathleen DesMaisons; "Little Sugar Addicts"; 2004
- Nemours Foundation; Kids and On-the-Go Nutrition; Mary L. Gavin; 2008
- American Family Physician; Nutrition in Toddlers; Richard E. Allen et al.; 2006
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