Protein supplements are popular in the bodybuilding community; however, there are also protein supplements marketed for kids and teens. Many protein supplements may be safe for children to consume in moderation, but they are expensive and kids usually don't need them to meet their daily protein needs. Consuming too much protein can be unhealthy and lead to kidney problems and increased body fat. Kids should never take protein supplements without a parent or guardian discussing the pros and cons with the child's doctor.
Types
There are several types of "kid-friendly" protein supplements on the market. Usually sold as pre-mixed drinks, they contain smaller amounts of protein compared to an adult serving of protein powder or protein bar. A few of the more common types of protein supplements on the market include whey, soy and casein. Whey protein is a fast-absorbing protein derived from milk. Casein comes from milk as well, but it is a slower-absorbing protein. Soy is from soybeans and is a complete protein source for vegetarians.
RDA
Even if the child's pediatrician has deemed a particular protein supplement safe, consuming too much can be unhealthy and lead to weight gain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises the recommended dietary allowance of protein for children ages 1 through 3 is 13 g per day. Kids between the ages of 4 and 8 should consume about 19 g of protein per day. Adolescents between the ages of 9 and 13 should consume about 34 g of protein per day. Teenage girls and boys need 46 g and 52 g, respectively. Many supplements can contain 15 g to more than 30 g of protein per serving. For younger children, this may put them far over their daily needs.
Risks
The biggest risk of kids using protein supplements is consuming too much. This can lead to weight gain and other health issues. The body converts protein to carbohydrates and uses it for fuel or stores it as fat. It excreted the excess. The CDC observes that most Americans consume more than enough protein to satisfy the needs of their bodies, making supplements unnecessary. Since the RDA for children is lower than that of adults, protein supplements may be especially harmful to kids. For example, while 20 g of whey protein per day may benefit healthy adults, this amount of would put children 8-years-old and younger above their daily protein needs.
Recommendation
Pediatrician Hugh O'Brodovich, MD, recommends following the position of the American Dietetic Association when it comes to supplementing protein. The ADA recommends using these supplements with caution and only after consulting a doctor or pediatrician. The doctor will evaluate the child's need for the supplement as well as the safety and efficacy of the particular protein supplement itself.
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