Parents are used to getting advice from all directions. Ever heard this one – “Your son is looking very weak, have you tried giving him a protein shake?”

 

This is a common one, and it can be exhausting trying to sort the good tips from the bad ones. Don’t worry, we’ll break it down for you!

 

Protein shakes may seem like an easy nutritional solution, but only if you find the kind that is right for your child. Make sure you consider the following factors when choosing a protein shake for your child:

 

Your Child’s Diet – Make sure your child has a balanced diet. A protein shake is only safe as long as it acts as a secondary measure for your child’s basic needs.

 

Your Child’s Protein Requirements – What age is your child? Is your child a boy or a girl? Various factors play a role in determining your child’s daily protein requirement. Studies suggest that children on average require the following amounts of protein a day

 

between ages 1 – 3: 13 g

between ages 4 – 8: 19 g

between ages 9 – 13: 34 g

teenage boys: 52 g

teenage girls: 46 g

 

Type of Protein Shake – The source of protein generally varies between types of shakes. They usually come from whey or soy. Make sure your child does not have any allergy to these ingredients.

 

As long as you consider these various factors, your child should be safe from any adverse effects. Talk to your doctor if you think your child is getting too much protein. You know your child best, so make sure you trust your instincts first!