According to nutritionist Priti Korgaonkar, India, protein supplementation for the body will change with different stages of life and you should ensure your body receives enough of this essential nutrient .
Infant
During the neonatal period, protein is important for growth and development; a lack of protein in the diet increases the risk of rickets in children by four times.
"Breast milk or formula provides the necessary source of protein for babies," says expert Korgaonkar. "When transitioning to solid foods, it is important to provide protein-rich foods such as pureed meat, beans and dairy products”.
Children
In children, protein remains essential for growth and development, especially during the period of rapid growth associated with puberty.
Expert Korgaonkar added that protein is especially important for people participating in sports to support muscle development and overall growth.
- Recommended nutritional intake for children 1-3 years old: 1.1 grams per kilogram of body weight.
- For children 4-13 years old: 0.95 grams per kilogram of body weight.
For adults
As we mature, protein needs usually stabilize. However, protein needs can vary depending on factors such as activity level, muscle mass and overall health. For physically active people, especially athletes or those participating in strength training, protein needs may be increased.
Recommended protein intake: 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.
- For people participating in physical activity: 1.2-2 grams per kilogram of body weight.
Pregnant and lactating women
Protein needs increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding, to support the growth and development of the baby and the health of the mother.
Protein intake for pregnant women: 1.1 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.
- For breastfeeding women: 1.3 grams per kilogram of body weight.
For the elderly
As we age, maintaining muscle mass becomes very important for overall health and mobility. Older adults often experience a natural decline in muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. To combat this condition, protein supplementation is becoming increasingly important.
- Recommended nutritional intake for the elderly: 1.0-1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight.
