Protein plays a vital role in children’s growth and health—from building body tissues to strengthening the immune system. Since protein requirements vary by age, parents need to understand the ideal intake and choose high-quality sources, such as fresh Olagud chicken, to support optimal growth and development.
Protein is one of the essential macronutrients for children’s growth and development. Beyond serving as an energy source, protein is the building block of muscles, skin, hair, enzymes, and hormones. A child’s protein needs depend on age, weight, activity level, and overall health. By understanding protein requirements at each stage, parents can ensure their child’s nutrition is met properly.
Why Protein Matters for Children
Protein has several vital functions in children’s health, including:
- Supporting Physical Growth – Helps form cells, tissues, and organs.
- Boosting the Immune System – Essential in antibody production to fight infections.
- Repairing Damaged Tissue – Active children often face minor injuries, and protein aids the healing process.
- Supporting Brain Function – Amino acids from protein help produce neurotransmitters that enhance focus and memory.
A lack of protein can lead to stunted growth, weakened immunity, and other health issues.
Children’s Protein Needs by Age
On average, children require about 1–1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
| Age Range | Daily Protein Needs |
| 1–3 years | ~20 g |
| 4–6 years | ~25 g |
| 7–9 years | ~40 g |
| 10–12 years | ~50 g |
| 13–15 years | ~70 g |
| 16–18 years | ~75 g |
These needs may vary depending on activity level and health condition. Active children or those recovering from illness may require higher intake.
Choosing the Right Protein Sources
Protein comes from two main sources: animal-based and plant-based.
- Animal Protein: Chicken, fish, eggs, milk, beef, and dairy products. These provide complete essential amino acids critical for growth.
- Plant Protein: Tofu, tempeh, legumes, and grains. While they may lack some amino acids, combining them ensures balanced nutrition.
A mix of both helps children achieve a well-rounded diet.
Tips for Meeting Children’s Protein Needs Daily
- Vary the Menu – Combine animal and plant protein sources to avoid monotony.
- Small but Frequent Portions – Suitable for children with smaller appetites.
- Choose Healthy Cooking Methods – Opt for boiling, steaming, or baking instead of deep-frying.
- Spread Intake Throughout the Day – Include protein in every main meal and healthy snack.
Sample menu for children aged 7–9 years:
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, whole wheat bread, low-fat milk.
- Morning Snack: Yogurt with fresh fruit.
- Lunch: Rice, grilled chicken, vegetable soup.
- Afternoon Snack: Fried tempeh with fruit juice.
- Dinner: Steamed fish, boiled potatoes, vegetable salad.
Effects of Protein Deficiency and Excess
- Deficiency: Can cause stunted growth, reduced muscle mass, dry skin, hair loss, and weakened immunity.
- Excess: Rare in children, but too much protein may burden the kidneys, cause dehydration, and disrupt nutritional balance if carb and fat intake is too low.
This makes it essential to provide protein in the right amounts.
Choosing High-Quality Protein for Children
To ensure children receive the best nutrition, parents should choose fresh, safe, and nutrient-rich foods. Chicken is one of the best protein sources—high in protein, low in saturated fat, and easy to prepare.
Olagud offers high-quality chicken raised on modern farms with natural probiotic feed, free from hormones and antibiotics, and processed under strict hygiene standards. This makes Olagud chicken safe, nutritious, and ideal for supporting children’s growth.
Olagud provides a variety of fresh chicken options for families, such as Probiotic Whole Chicken, Premium Free-Range Chicken, and Boneless Skinless Breast and Thigh. All are hygienically processed, antibiotic-free, and protein-rich—making them safe and healthy for daily consumption.
A Guide to Supporting Children’s Optimal Growth
Protein is a cornerstone of children’s growth and development. Needs vary by age—from about 20 g per day for toddlers to 70 g for active teenagers. Parents should balance animal and plant protein sources and prioritize high-quality ingredients.
By following age-based protein guidelines, parents can plan more easily balanced daily menus for their children. Choosing fresh, high-quality options—such as Olagud chicken—ensures children receive safe, nutrient-dense protein to support growth, immunity, and overall development.
Sources:
- Ministry of Health (Kemenkes)
- Regulation of the Minister of Health No. 28/2019 on Recommended Dietary Allowances for Indonesians
- Banda Aceh Health Department
- Jurnal Gizi dan Nutrisi – ISAGI
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
