From the Guidelines
Children should consume about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, as recommended by the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) 1. For example, a 20-kilogram child needs approximately 16 grams of protein daily, while a 30-kilogram child requires about 24 grams. Good protein sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts. Protein is essential for children's growth and development as it builds and repairs tissues, supports immune function, and helps form enzymes and hormones. It's also important to note that the protein requirements may vary depending on the child's age, activity level, and medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) 1. In children with CKD, the recommended dietary protein intake is 100% of the DRI for ideal body weight plus an allowance for dialytic protein and amino acid losses 1. However, most children in developed countries easily meet or exceed their protein requirements through a normal diet. If you're concerned about your child's protein consumption, consulting with a pediatrician or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance. Some key points to consider when evaluating protein intake in children include:
- The Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) for children aged >3 years and adults is 10–30% or 10–35% of total energy, depending on age and gender group 1
- Vegetarian and vegan diets can provide adequate protein if a variety of plant-based protein sources are consumed throughout the day 1
- Protein intake may be underestimated by 10–20% when self-report measures are used, compared with 24-h urinary nitrogen excretion 1
From the Research
Protein Intake for Children
There is no specific information provided in the studies about the exact amount of protein children should eat. However, the studies provide general information about protein intake and its importance for human health.
Importance of Protein
- Protein is essential for growth, development, and maintenance of body tissues 2, 3, 4
- Adequate protein intake is necessary for preventing protein undernutrition, which can lead to stunting, anemia, physical weakness, edema, vascular dysfunction, and impaired immunity 2
- Protein intake is also important for promoting skeletal-muscle protein accretion and physical strength 2
Protein Requirements
- The Recommended Dietary Allowance of protein for a healthy adult with minimal physical activity is 0.8 g protein per kg body weight per day 2
- However, this information is not directly applicable to children, and there is no specific recommendation provided in the studies for children's protein intake
- The studies suggest that the quantity and quality of protein are important determinants of its nutritional value, and adequate consumption of high-quality proteins from animal products is essential for optimal growth, development, and health of humans 2, 4
Nutrition in Children and Adolescents
- Nutrition is a critical factor for appropriate child and adolescent development, and appropriate nutrition changes according to age 5
- Families must work to provide improved food environments to encourage optimum nutrition, and early primordial prevention of risk factors for chronic disease is important 5