Is your baby getting right protein?

Protein is essential for growth and development and also to maintain and repair body. Since babies grow rapidly, their protein requirement per pound of body weight is much more than older kids, adolescents and adults. For infants, breast milk is the source of protein until 6 months of age. Thereafter, between 6 to 12 months, while milk continues to be an important source of protein, other sources of protein include mashed beans, chickpeas, green peas, lentils, legumes, yogurt and cottage cheese. After one year of age, egg yolk, non-vegetarian foods, seeds and nuts can be added. Other important sources of protein for older children are peanut butter, cheese and soy. Plant protein is always superior to animal protein in terms of health benefits and environmental protection.

It is important not to introduce egg white before one year of age because it can cause allergic reactions in young infants. Cow's milk must not be substituted for breast milk before one year of age because it leads to poor iron absorption. It is always better to take protein through natural sources than tinned powders which are available in the market. Vegetarian sources of protein are far superior to animal sources of protein. Target for protein intake must be at least 2 grams of protein per kg weight of the baby.