Protein requirements in children by age

The article was professionally consulted by MSc.BS.Huynh Bao Toan - Neonatologist, Vinmec Nha Trang General Hospital. The doctor has 13 years of experience in the field of Pediatrics.

Protein (also known as protein) is one of the basic substances and is a structural component of cells and organs inside the body.
Humans, especially children, need to be supplemented with protein through the following foods:
Animals: meat, shrimp, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products (butter, cheese, yogurt .. .). Plants: legumes (chickpeas, red beans, black beans, soybeans), nuts (cashews, walnuts, almonds, ...), margarine, whole grains, . ..

Protein plays an important role in the development of children, especially children who are in the weaning stage.

The role of protein with children is as follows:
Weight and fitness: Helps children gain weight, be healthy and develop physically Resistance: Protein is a component of antibodies, helping children strengthen resistance. Brain: Comprehensive development of the child's brain. Digestion: Protein forms enzymes that help children digest better. Cells and life: Protein helps to regenerate and form new cells as well as internal organs, providing energy for the body to function and maintain life.

Depending on the age, the protein needs of children are different. On average, children need about 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Specifically:
Children from 1 to 3 years old: 15 - 18 grams/day Children from 4 to 6 years old: 20 - 23 grams/day Children from 7 to 10 years old: 28 - 32 grams/day Children from 11 to 14 years old: 42 - 45 grams /day However, when supplementing with protein for children, it should be noted that the amount of protein is not equivalent to the amount of meat taken into the body. About 20 - 30 grams of unprocessed meat (fish, pork, beef, chicken) contains only 4-6 grams of protein.

For children, especially young children in the growing period, protein requirements may be higher. Between proteins of animal and plant origin, animal protein is preferred because of its high value and contains essential amino acids, which is easier for children to absorb. In each child's daily meal, the amount of protein from animals should account for about 50-60%.
However, children need to be supplemented with a variety of plant and animal proteins to both enrich their meals and help them absorb better. Besides, it is also important to avoid adding too much protein because it can affect the liver and kidneys of children.
Protein is one of the essential substances for children to develop both physically and mentally. Mothers need to understand the protein needs of children according to each age to fully supplement protein for children every day.
Vinmec International General Hospital is the address for examination, treatment and prevention of diseases, including the pediatric - neonatal specialty. When performing the examination process at Vinmec, customers will be welcomed and used modern facilities and equipment along with perfect medical services under the guidance and advice of experts. Good doctors, well-trained both at home and abroad.