10 Signs of Protein Deficiency in Kids

Protein provides important essential amino acids that contribute to the mental and physical health of your child. Without enough protein in their diet, your kid may experience the symptoms below in the chart: fatigue, lack of concentration, slowed growth, lowered immunity and more.

Believe it or not, one in seven school-aged kids even in the U.S. don't get enough protein daily.  That number is not too shocking when you learn that 30 percent of their total daily calories come from low-nutrient snacks, desserts and candy. When it comes to India, the gap is much wider. 80% of Indians are deficient in proteins. Only 3% mothers are aware of the functions of protein in India. This is across vegetarian and non-vegetarian households across the country.

If your child is not getting enough protein, it can lead to more serious side effects eventually. As a matter of fact, this essential macronutrient is so important for kids that it affects every single part of the body.

Protein provides important essential amino acids that contribute to the mental and physical health of your child. Without enough protein in their diet, your kid may experience the symptoms below in the chart: fatigue, lack of concentration, slowed growth, lowered immunity and more.
So how can you make sure your child is getting enough protein?

First, get familiar with the minimum daily protein recommendations for your child's age and also be aware of the signs and symptoms below. Then, look for easy, delicious ways to provide protein for kids throughout the day – like these fun, protein-inspired snacks.

10 Signs of Protein Deficiency

• Delayed or slow growth
• Lower Immunity
• Poor Concentration
• Bone or Joint Pain
• Constant Hunger
• Sluggish feeling or constant fatigue
• Slow wound healing
• Decreased muscle development
• Brittle nails
• Hair thinning

As a first step, understand the protein requirement. As a thumb rule, our kids need 1 gm of protein per kg of body weight. A little more of the kids are active and athletic.

Then find a way to ensure the right amount of protein per day through yogurt, milk, eggs, soy, lentils or protein filled snack.

At Gladful, we are soon building a protein calculator for you moms so that you know how much protein is your child having everyday! Till then, go through the protein rich food recipes by our #gladmom community or enjoy Gladful protein foods between your meals or in tiffin!