Toddlers are in a constant state of growth, and an adequate source of protein is crucial for healthy development of muscles, organ growth, brain function and cell regeneration. Based on the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 15 to 20 percent of a toddler's daily calories should be from a source of protein. If a toddler is not consuming adequate protein through whole food sources such as meat, fish, eggs, nuts, beans and legumes, supplementing a toddler's diet with protein powder offers a viable option.
Step 1
Serve a toddler a protein-packed smoothie or milkshake. A nutritious smoothie may include the following ingredients: 1 cup of strawberries and bananas, 1 tbsp. carob chips, 1 tsp. nut butter, blended with 2 cups of milk or milk substitute and 1 scoop of protein powder. Use less liquid for a thicker shake. Toddlers may prefer a vanilla- or chocolate-flavored protein powder.
Step 2
Treat a toddler to a yogurt or pudding parfait. Mix small amounts of protein powder with yogurt or pudding until completely dissolved. Layer the protein-packed yogurt or pudding in a dish with granola, fruit and nuts to create a parfait. Use 1/4 cup protein powder for every cup of yogurt or pudding.
Step 3
Add protein powder to a toddler's breakfast cereal. Mix protein powder with water, milk or a milk substitute until reaching the desired consistency, and pour over hot or cold cereal. Typically one scoop of protein powder for every 8 to 10 oz. of liquid is recommended.
Step 4
Add protein powder to a toddler's favorite baked goods such as pancakes, breakfast bars, cookies or cakes. For example, replace half of the flour that the recipe recommends with whey protein powder. Note that using whey powder alone creates a drier, less-moist baked good. Each recipe varies depending on the type of protein powder and flour used.
Tips and Warnings
- Select a quality, nutrient-dense protein powder that does not contain artificial sweeteners, colors or preservatives. Flavored protein powder such as vanilla or chocolate may complement dessert recipes best. Consider decreasing the amount of sweetener in the recipe if using a flavored protein powder in baked good recipes. Purchase small packets of different types of protein powder to discover which brand and flavor the toddler prefers.
- Children who do not get enough protein might lack energy, especially if they are highly active. Consult a pediatrician before including protein powder into a toddler's diet.
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