While playing block games with my daughter, I told her that our body is also made up of building blocks called proteins. She was surprised at this, and her nonstop questions also raised my curiosity to know more about proteins. Being from a non-science background, I needed to learn about these proteins, so when I dug deeper to understand what they are and why they are considered essential nutrients for children's growth, I came across some interesting facts.
What is protein? (1)
Among all the essential nutrients, proteins play a crucial role
in a child's overall development. It is the most critical nutrient that plays a
significant role in formulating a healthy body as it supports the generation of
new cells and building the immune system. Including an appropriate amount of
protein in each meal helps as protein is required for producing hormones,
transporting nutrients, and growing and building muscle.
Why are proteins called the building blocks of life? (1)
Proteins are the building blocks of life because they are needed
for the building of muscles and tissues in our body. Our body has a particular
structure because of proteins. Proteins are an essential macronutrient
synthesized throughout an individual's life. They are present in our cells,
bones, muscles, blood, hormones, enzymes, etc.
What are proteins made of? (1)
Imagine proteins as a building block game in which each piece
assembles to form various structures. Similarly, every cell in the human body
contains proteins formed from chains of amino acids. Now, amino acids are
individual blocks forming proteins when they join chains. Different combinations
of amino acids form unique protein structures responsible for different bodily
functions.
Functions of proteins in the body: (1)
- As Digestive enzymes, they help facilitate
chemical reactions
- As Antibodies support the immune system of
our body
- Support the regulation and expression of
DNA and RNA
- Aids Muscle contraction and Movement
- Hormones help in coordinating bodily
functions
- Protein transporters aid in the movement of
essential molecules around the body
Which other nutrients do children
need more?
In adequate proportion, a kid's diet should contain all the
essential nutrients necessary for a healthy body, such as carbohydrates,
proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Children of growing ages require enough carbohydrates and
proteins in their daily diet, as they are physically more active and thus
require more energy. Proteins in active young bodies are required to support
growth.
How do I give my child essential
nutrition?
Incorporating protein into kids' meals is very important.
Parents can try different natural sources of proteins in varied combinations.
Plant-Based Protein foods: (2)
Legumes: lentils, beans, chickpeas, soybeans, peanuts.
Nuts and Seeds: almonds, pistachios, cashews, walnuts,
hazelnuts.
Whole Grains: wheat, rice, millet, oats.
Animal-Based Protein foods:
Poultry and seafood: Eggs, chicken, fish, dairy foods: yoghurt,
milk or cheese
Red meat—pork, lamb, mutton, and goat meat can be incorporated
seldom
How to get your protein needs other
than natural sources:
Sometimes, it gets challenging to incorporate the appropriate
amount of essential nutrients in the kid's diet, as Kids can be fussy and picky
with their food at times. While exploring nutrition drinks, I came across
Complan, which is a partner in a parent’s journey.
With 34 vital nutrients that include 100% milk protein, vitamins
and minerals for overall development, Complan has great-tasting flavours. It
also has 63% more protein than other nutrition drinks. It is clinically proven to support 2x faster growth and supports memory and
concentration
Conclusion:
As a parent, it is vital to understand how essential nutrients
help form a child's years. Parents can incorporate natural and healthy foods to
fulfil their children's daily requirements for critical nutrients. A block game
needs a solid foundation to make the blocks stand upright. Similarly, a child's
development years require the right amount of essential nutrients to make them
strong inside and out.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative supported by Complan.
References:
1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/functions-of-protein#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3
Truly, proteins are building blocks, needed for efficient growth and development. The point 'Support the regulation and expression of DNA and RNA' was great information. I am sure adding Complan to your child's daily regime has helped a lot.
ReplyDeleteProteins are building blocks and so essential for growing children. There are thankfully a wide range of options both vegetarian and nonvegetarian, when it comes to protein rich food as you have mentioned.
ReplyDeleteI agree growing kids require balanced healthy diet and complan can definitely fulfill that need. I too was a complan gal and given it to my kids too.
ReplyDeleteProteins really are the building blocks of life! Understanding how they contribute to muscle and tissue growth sheds light on their crucial role in our bodies.
ReplyDeleteIt's all about giving them the building blocks they need to grow strong and healthy.
ReplyDeleteUnderstanding how essential nutrients shape a child's development is key for parents. It's like laying a solid foundation for their future health and well-being.
ReplyDeleteLearning about proteins feels like unraveling a mystery, doesn't it? It's fascinating to see how amino acids come together to form these vital nutrients.
ReplyDeleteKnowing the functions of proteins in the body makes you appreciate their importance even more.
ReplyDeleteIt's like putting together the pieces of a puzzle to create a strong foundation for their well-being.
ReplyDeleteComplan seems like a real game-changer. With its blend of essential nutrients and tasty flavors, it's like a superhero sidekick in the journey of parenting.
ReplyDeletePlant-based proteins offer a diverse array of options for kids' meals. From lentils to nuts, there's something for every little taste bud to explore.
ReplyDeleteJust like a block game needs a strong foundation, kids need the right mix of essential nutrients to thrive.
ReplyDeleteProtein is very essential for growing kids and there are many ways to give them the required amount. Most kids love milk and added flavours are always welcome.We only have to check that too much of anything is bad. Moderation is the key for every kind of food.
ReplyDeleteAs parents we need to ensure that our kids get the right nutrition for their age. Proteins are crucial for complete growth and Complan helps bridge the gap for kids.
ReplyDeleteProteins are indeed the building blocks of life, essential for growth and development. It’s fascinating how they form our body’s structure and function, much like a game of assembling blocks into complex shapes.
ReplyDeleteProtein is very essential and also one of the building blocks for growing kids. For healthy growth kids require a good amount of protein in diet and I'm sure complan is a good way of including
ReplyDeleteProtein is very essential and also one of the building blocks for growing kids. For healthy growth kids require a good amount of protein in diet and I'm sure complan is a good way of including
ReplyDeleteInformative article on proteins as life’s building blocks. It’s enlightening to learn about their crucial role in children’s growth and the various sources to include in a balanced diet. Great awareness initiative!
ReplyDeleteAdding protein to our diet (especially as vegetarians) has been one of the most tedious tasks for me. I am always looking for easier ways to increase our intake.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, proteins are the fundamental components of life! Their vital function in our bodies becomes clear when we consider how they aid in the growth of muscle and tissue
ReplyDelete