Importance of Protein In Child’s Diet: What You Need To Know

Protein is often called the "building block" of life, and for good reason. And every parent wants his child to not just grow but to lead a healthy, active lifestyle. Protein plays a vital role in making that happen. Whether it's about supporting muscle growth or boosting their immune system, protein is essential for everything from daily energy needs in the long run. 

But what are the ideal amounts of protein your child actually needs? And why is it so important?

Read below this article to learn how much protein your child needs and why incorporating protein in your child’s diet is so crucial.

There are endless reasons why protein turns out to be one of the most important aspects of a child’s diet. Here are a few reasons that make protein an essential part of your kid’s diet.

During childhood, rapid growth occurs, particularly in muscles, bones, and organs. Protein provides the necessary building materials for this growth. According to Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), protein intake varies with age, but children typically need around 13–34 grams of protein daily, based on their age. It also plays a role in producing essential hormones and enzymes that keep bodily functions running smoothly.

Proteins play a big role in creating antibodies that fight off infections and illnesses. Since a child’s immune system is constantly developing, their body requires adequate protein to ensure their defense mechanisms work right. If your child doesn’t get enough protein, their body may struggle to fight off common illnesses, resulting in more sick days and a slower recovery time.

While carbohydrates are the primary source of energy, protein can also serve as a backup energy source when needed, especially during the phase of intense growth. It helps keep your child fueled throughout the day, avoiding the tired afternoons after returning from school that can lead to crankiness and difficulty focusing.

Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are essential for producing neurotransmitters in the brain, which help regulate mood, behavior, and cognitive functions in kids.

If your kids are active and are prone to injuries or muscle strain, protein plays a significant role in the repair of tissues. In short, protein helps the body heal faster from those inevitable injuries.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the daily protein requirement for children is:

The intake may increase as the child turns older and his energy needs increase. Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate a variety of protein-rich sources, such as lean meats, dairy, eggs, nuts, and lentils, into their diet.

Protein can be found in a variety of plant-based and non-plant-based foods. Here are a few protein-rich food sources that you could add to your kid’s diet plan.

If your child is a picky eater, here are a few tips on how you could sneak in these protein-rich sources to your child’s diet chart.

Protein is an essential component of your child’s diet to support their growth and development. It is important to ensure your child meets his daily nutritional needs. The best way is to incorporate nutrient-rich foods in his diet to strike a healthy balance of every nutrient and thus ensure overall well-being.