Proteins are the most basic components of cells. It is an essential component of your body’s tissues, cells, organs and muscles. And when the question arises that how much protein should a toddler take in a day… We must first know that Proteins are composed of 22 amino acids, 13 of which the body can produce. So, the best protein sources are those that contain all amino acids that the body cannot produce. These food sources tend to be found in animal products, known as complete proteins.
Protein is a major component of your muscles, organs and skin. A toddler aged 2-3 years-old must have a minimum of 13 grams of protein per day. Specific toddler protein requirements vary by age and weight. Generally, an average 30-pound, 3-year-old needs about 16 grams of protein each day.
In addition to other vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, iron and calcium, protein is crucial to healthy toddler growth and development. Adequate protein intake is especially important for vegan and vegetarian toddlers because meat and other animal products are some of the best sources of protein. Generally, most toddlers get plenty of protein if they eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Sources of Proteins
Proteins are present in a wide variety of foods. Animal products, such as milk, cheese, meat, yogurt, tuna and other fish, all contain large quantities of protein. Vegan and vegetarian toddlers can obtain protein from beans, rice and whole grains. Combining foods, such as beans and rice or peanut butter and bread, provides a source of complete protein. Your child does not need to eat these combinations together in one sitting; they will provide the same health benefit if consumed in the same 24-hour period.
Some Proteins also contain fat, so you should try to keep your toddler’s total fat intake at about 20 to 30 per cent of her total caloric intake. For example, if your toddler eats 1,300 calories per day, 260 to 390 of these calories should be from fat.
Proteins belonging to a class of nutrients called macronutrients. In order to ensure that your child stays healthy, it is important to provide adequate amounts of protein each day.
The protein in your diet also helps your body repair cells and make new cells. This is especially important for children because children are constantly going through periods of growth and development. Protein also allows for proper wound healing and helps the body maintain fluid and acid-base balance.
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