Top High-Protein Foods for Kids

Children need protein in their diets for growth, brain power and also to boost their immune systems. The organs and muscles within the body are primarily made of protein, and many children need 1 gram of protein for each two pounds they weigh.

Good nutrition is extremely important for children being treated for cancer. Children with cancer usually have poor appetites. Also, negative effects from medications may make the body not tolerate foods well. This could contribute to poor nutrition and poor growth. If your child with cancer maintains adequate nutrition, then he/she might be more likely to:

The Facts

Protein is essential for growth, especially in young children. It's a macronutrient that supplies the body with energy. Children One to three years of age receive 13 grams of protein daily. Four to eight-year-olds need 19 grams of protein per day, and 9- to 13-year-olds should receive 34 grams of protein each day.

Types

High-protein foods are available in a wide variety. Meats high in protein are beef, chicken, fish, lamb and turkey. Cheese, milk, eggs and dairy foods for example cottage cheese, cream cheese and yogurt will also be good choices. Give kids peanut butter, beans and peas. Although fundamental essentials foods highest in protein, even foods which are low in protein can be enhanced to make sure that your child receives more of the essential macro nutrients.

Breakfast

Protein each morning will give your child the energy he must start his day. Eggs are filled with protein, but there are many other high-protein breakfast options. Spread peanut butter on the piece of toast, add extra eggs to French toast and pancake batter, or add powdered milk to yogurt, oatmeal and cereal. Pair his breakfast by having an 8-ounce glass of milk, which generally contains 8 grams of protein. Another breakfast choice is a protein-packed smoothie, with added protein powder or tofu.

Lunch

Add protein for your child's lunch menu by peanut butter. Make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or dip apples and bananas in peanut butter. Other high-protein sandwich options include chicken, tuna and egg salad. Put cheese on the sandwich for added protein. A serving of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, a common kid favorite, provides 9 grams of protein. Add powdered milk towards the macaroni and cheese for an additional protein boost.

Dinner

To increase your child's protein intake at dinnertime, include beef, chicken or fish inside your meals. While grilled chicken is really a healthier option, the breaded chicken nuggets that lots of children love contain approximately 14 grams of protein. Add powdered milk to soup, or add eggs to mashed potatoes, meat loaf and casseroles. The pickiest eater can enjoy a high-protein meal inside a kid favorite such as cheese pizza. For any protein-filled after-dinner treat, put whole milk in baked goods and desserts.

Benefits

Children who don't eat sufficiently and are not growing well ought to be encouraged to eat high protein foods. Adequate protein intake results in healthier bones and bodies. Protein is critically important for any child's muscle and tissue growth as well as for healthy skin, hair and organs.