Fueling Tiny Muscles, Naturally: Should You Give Your Child Vegan Protein Powder?
Yes of course children can consume vegan protein powder, but there are a few conditions associated with it. I will discuss the conditions first so that there is no confusion left.
Allergic ingredients: Read the labels and especially the ingredients list so as to understand what the protein powder consists of and if the child is not allergic to the ingredients mentioned, the Protein powder is completely safe.
Highly concentrated protein powders: Humans do not require highly concentrated protein in their diet, instead the requirement of protein should be spread throughout the day in various meals, for easy digestion and absorption.
Again Read the labels carefully so as to check how much protein is there per 100 grams of the product. Chicken, Beef etc high in protein and are only 25 to 30 grams of protein per 100 gms of the main ingredient, so you can understand that anything that has been processed just to increase the concentration of protein is not required by humans. If humans were meant to consume such highly concentrated stuff, Mother Nature would have surely made such a product. Highly concentrated Protein is man-made,
Chemical additives, Preservatives: Most of the packed food health drinks or protein powders including whey protein powders are loaded with chemical additives, preservatives, colourings etc., and should be avoided by everyone including children.
Children below the age of six: Children below the age of six have different dietary requirements, and hence concentrated protein powders should be completely avoided.
Now let us understand the topic in detail, I will try and give factual information, backed by evidence, to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Protein Requirements for Children:
Protein is an essential nutrient for children as it aids in growth, development, and repair of body tissues. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the recommended daily protein intake for children varies depending on age. For children aged 1-3 years, it is approximately 13 grams, while for those aged 4-8 years, it is around 19 grams.
Vegan Protein Powder Options:
Vegan protein powders are derived from plant sources such as Almonds, Flaxseed, peas, rice, hemp, or soy. They offer a convenient way to supplement protein intake, especially for individuals following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
Safety and Nutritional Considerations:
Now, let’s address the main concern: Is it safe for children to consume vegan protein powder? Again The answer is yes, but with some important considerations, out of which few have been discussed right in the beginning, and I will mention them again if required.
Quality and Ingredients:
When selecting a vegan protein powder for your child, it is crucial to read the label and choose a reputable brand. Look for products that are free from artificial additives, sweeteners, and excessive amounts of sugar.
Allergies and Sensitivities:
Some children may have allergies or sensitivities to certain plant-based proteins such as nuts, soy or pea. If your child has known allergies, consult with a paediatrician or allergist before introducing any new protein powder into their diet. They can help determine the best alternatives or recommend appropriate supplementation.
Balanced Nutrition:
While protein powders can be a valuable addition to a child’s diet, it is important to remember that they should not replace whole, nutrient-rich foods. Encourage a varied and balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to ensure your child receives a wide range of essential nutrients.
Benefits of Vegan Protein Powder for Children:
- Adequate Protein Intake: Vegan protein powders can help meet a child’s daily protein needs, especially if they have dietary restrictions or aversions to certain protein-rich foods.
- Growth and Development: Protein is crucial for optimal growth and development in children. Vegan protein powders can provide the necessary amino acids for muscle and tissue repair, bone health, and overall development.
- Convenience: Vegan protein powders offer a convenient way to supplement protein intake, particularly during busy days or when certain food options are limited.
Vegan Protein benefits for children.
Let us also understand what is Sheer MADness made of, so that a wise decision can be taken.
Sheer MADness is made of Almond, and flaxseed as the main ingredient, and is completely free of any chemical additive, preservative, colours or emulsifiers.
Understanding Almond and Flaxseed Protein:
Almond protein powder is derived from almonds, which are nutrient-dense nuts rich in healthy fats, fibre, and protein. Flaxseed protein powder, on the other hand, is obtained from ground flaxseeds, which are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and lignans. Both almond and flaxseed proteins are plant-based options that can contribute to a well-rounded vegan diet.
Safety and Nutritional Considerations:
When considering almond and flaxseed protein powder for children, it is important to keep the following points in mind:
Allergies and Sensitivities:
Few children could be allergic to Almonds, in that case, it is crucial to consult with a paediatrician or allergist before introducing almond protein powder. Similarly, flaxseed allergies are rare but not unheard of. It is always wise to exercise caution if your child has a history of allergic reactions.
Nutritional Profile:
Almond and flaxseed proteins offer different nutritional profiles. While almond protein provides a good amount of protein along with healthy fats and fibre, flaxseed protein is known for its high omega-3 fatty acid content. Ensure that your child’s overall diet includes a variety of protein-rich foods to meet their daily protein requirements.
Balanced Nutrition for Children:
While almond and flaxseed protein powder can be a part of a child’s diet, it is essential to focus on a holistic approach to nutrition. Emphasize a wide range of nutrient-dense whole foods to ensure your child receives a balanced intake of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporate other plant-based protein sources like beans, lentils, quinoa, and tofu to provide a diverse amino acid profile.
Consultation and Personalized Advice:
Every child is unique, and their nutritional needs may vary. It is always recommended to consult with a paediatrician, registered dietitian, or nutritionist before introducing any new supplements or making significant dietary changes. They can evaluate your child’s specific requirements, allergies, and sensitivities to provide personalized advice that aligns with their growth and development.
Remember, it’s always essential to rely on peer-reviewed scientific research and expert advice when making decisions about your child’s nutrition and well-being.
The information provided is for educational purposes only, in case if a child has any existing health-related issues, please consult a doctor.
Sheer MADness never recommends its products for children below the age of six. Read the label of Sheer MADness carefully.
Source of information collected from the studies that have been conducted, sharing the sites and their link.
Read The Article from a recent study at Harvard.
National Library of Medicine:
Conclusion:
In conclusion, children can safely consume vegan protein powder as part of a balanced diet. When choosing a product, prioritize quality, consider any allergies or sensitivities, and remember that protein powder should not replace whole foods. Vegan protein powders can be a valuable tool to ensure adequate protein intake and support your child’s growth and development. As always, consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice based on your child’s specific needs.
Now, here are Few Facts before I finish:
These are the same lines from my book “Great Health Comes from Exercise & Nutrition”
a) Everyone is an individual, so what suits me, may or may not suit the next person.
b) If a person has a medical condition, a doctor’s advice and prescribed medication will only help.
c) While buying any protein powder from the market read the labels carefully, and Watch out for various codes, and words like Anti-caking agent, and INS 551( Also known as Silicon dioxide), All these are Laboratory made chemicals, and although approved by regulatory bodies think twice, will you consume a spoon of Silicon dioxide? And Silicon dioxide is just one product, there are numerous others like BHA ( Butylated hydroxyanisole ), BHT ( Butylated hydroxytoluene ) and the list of lab-made chemicals goes on and on with various codes, that we generally ignore.
Hence read the labels especially the ingredients list of the product before buying.
If you are interested in buying chemical-free Natural vegan Protein powder, Health drinks for kids or our delicious but chemical-free Energy bars and Protein bars shop @ Sheer MADness.
One can also buy our Products From Flipkart, Jio Mart or ONDC in India.
d) Exercise is the key to fitness, we should always keep in mind that exercise and nutrition are two sides of the same coin and always go hand in hand. So only nutrition will not help you attain any goals till it is not supplemented with Exercise.
e) Excess of anything is wrong, it can be the best nutrient-filled superfood, but one should consume only recommended quantities.
f) Regarding health, fitness, and nutrition, remember that Rome was not built in a day. Your discipline and consistency is the key.
g) It’s not only Exercise and protein that builds muscles, there are numerous other factors like a healthy gut, numerous macro and micronutrients, your body type and DNA, the amount of rest the body gets, the lifestyle an individual lives, and on and on it goes. Out of all these, exercise and nutrition are within our control, and one should focus on these two primary aspects.
h) For More benefits related to Vegan Protein Powder, I will request you to read the Post: Muscle Growth to Health, Plant Protein Powders are the future.
i) To clear any doubt related to the topic of “Protein” I would request you to read my post “Protein, Everything you should be aware of.”
j) And the most important part: Nothing is better than a balanced meal.
Article by Chef Ashutosh Awasthi.
Disclaimer: Our products are a source of HEALTHY NUTRIENTS and COMPLETELY FREE OF ANY ADDED CHEMICALS.
We do not claim to cure any medical condition.
The information provided is informational, and we do not claim to diagnose or treat a person with any specific medical condition.
