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Protein Deficiency in Children: The Risks and Solutions

By Annette DuBois, California Business Journal

Protein is essential for growing kids—it’s the fuel behind strong muscles, a healthy immune system, and overall development. But here’s what many don’t realize: it’s not just about getting enough protein, but getting the right kind. Research suggests that a lack of high-quality protein during the first 1,000 days of life can lead to stunted growth and other long-term health problems (NIH, n.d.).

Furthermore, there is a lack of official policy recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) or UNICEF regarding protein and amino acid intake in young children. Research highlights the need for updated guidelines, as protein intake requirements may be underestimated, especially for children experiencing catch-up growth after illness or malnutrition.

Are Kids Getting Enough Protein?

The protein recommendations for children under 19 range from 0.85 to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day (Hudson JL, et al., 2021). These numbers come from studies using nitrogen balance methods, which estimate how much protein the body needs to maintain balance. But here’s the issue—these methods may underestimate the actual protein needs of children.

In 2020, about 22% of children worldwide—roughly 149.2 million—experienced stunting, a condition where chronic undernutrition leads to low height for age (WHO, 2020). Stunting is often linked to poverty, poor maternal health, frequent illness, and inadequate nutrition during early life.

Protein deficiency can cause delayed motor skills, impaired brain function, and poor school performance. Long-term effects include higher risks of chronic diseases, reduced physical growth, and hindered brain development, which can impact future generations. (Endrinikapoulos A., 2023). Proteins contain essential and non-essential amino acids, which are vital for growth. Essential amino acids must come from food sources, as the body cannot produce them on its own.

What Causes Protein Deficiency?

Several things, as the study by Endrinikapoulos A. and peers (2023) stated, make it hard for kids to get enough protein:

Cost – High-quality protein sources like lean meats, fish, and dairy can be expensive.
Dietary Restrictions – Vegan, vegetarian, or selective eating habits can lead to missing essential amino acids (Protein-Energy Malnutrition, 2024).
Chronic Illnesses – Conditions like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease can interfere with protein absorption.
Lack of Awareness – Some parents may not realize that protein quality is just as important as quantity.

Does Physical Activity Affect Protein Needs?

Yes. When kids move more, their bodies demand more protein. Studies show that kids aged 8–15 who are more active have greater muscle mass and strength. In adults, exercise increases protein breakdown and muscle growth, which raises their protein needs. The same likely happens in children, but current guidelines don’t adjust protein intake based on activity levels because there isn’t enough research yet (Hudson JL., 2016).

How to Spot Protein Deficiency

Even a mild deficiency can show up in different ways:

Slower growth or delayed development
Muscle weakness or fatigue
More frequent infections and slow healing
Swelling (edema) in the legs, feet, or abdomen (in extreme cases)
Trouble concentrating or learning

Why Protein Quality Matters

Protein isn’t just about quantity. High-quality sources, especially animal-based proteins like milk, eggs, and lean meats, are linked to better growth outcomes (Suri et al., 2016). These foods have a high digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS), meaning they provide all the essential amino acids kids need.

Experts suggest kids at risk of stunting should get at least 24 grams of high-quality protein per 1,000 kcal (Semba RD, 2016). But most dietary guidelines don’t reflect these findings, meaning some kids might not be getting enough.

How to Make Sure Kids Get Enough Protein

Parents can do a few simple things to help:

Offer a mix of plant-based and animal-based proteins.
Include eggs, dairy, lean meats, beans, nuts, and seeds.
Introduce a variety of protein-rich foods early to prevent picky eating.
Consider fortified foods or supplements if needed.

A Convenient Protein Support: TruHeight Growth Protein Shake

For busy families, TruHeight Growth Protein Shake makes it easier to ensure kids get enough high-quality protein without the extra hassle. Each serving provides 16 grams of protein, supporting muscle growth, immune function, and overall development. Without artificial ingredients, it’s a nutritious option without unnecessary additives.*

TruHeight offers both whey and plant-based formulas, each packed with essential Vitamins A, B, C, D, and Calcium—key nutrients for strong bones, energy production, and a resilient immune system.

Whey Protein Shake – Made with high-quality whey protein to support muscle building and maintenance.
Plant Protein Shake – A dairy-free, vegan-friendly option made with Plant Protein Isolate, perfect for kids with lactose intolerance or those on a plant-based diet. It delivers the same growth benefits as the whey version, making sure no child misses out on essential nutrients.*

Whether for kids with dietary restrictions, picky eaters, or just as an easy way to boost nutrition, TruHeight Growth Protein Shake helps bridge the gap between daily food intake and nutritional needs—without compromising on quality or taste.*

Conclusion

Most kids in the U.S. get enough protein, but the type of protein they eat matters. High-quality sources help kids grow stronger, stay healthier, and reach their full potential. Experts are calling for better guidelines to reflect new research on protein needs in early childhood.

Parents can take simple steps—like including a variety of protein sources and paying attention to quality—to support their children’s growth. Making smart food choices today sets the stage for better health in the future.

References

Andrinopoulos A, Afifah DN, Mexitalia M, Andoyo R, Hatimah I, Nuryanto N. Study of the importance of protein needs for catch-up growth in Indonesian stunted children: a narrative review. (2023). Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10123915/.
National Institutes of Health (NIH). “Protein Intake Recommendations for Children.” (2023).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Nutrition and Child Growth: A National Perspective.” (2022).
Hudson JL, Baum JI, Diaz EC, Børsheim E. Dietary Protein Requirements in Children: Methods for Consideration. Nutrients. (2021). Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8147948/.
Semba RD. The Rise and Fall of Protein Malnutrition in Global Health. Ann Nutr Metab. (2016). Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5114156/#R54.
World Health Organization. (2024). Malnutrition. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/malnutrition
Wikipedia. (2024). Protein-energy malnutrition. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protein%E2%80%93energy_malnutrition