When you think about protein, what is it that comes to mind? Perhaps you imagine a juicy slice of chicken or beef; maybe it’s a delicious variety of beans and pulses; or even the tasty protein shake you drink after a heavy session at the gym. All are fantastic sources of protein, as are cheese, milk, and eggs. But why exactly is protein so important?

Every cell of the human body is made up of protein; proteins are the very building blocks of life. Protein, responsible for growth and the repair and maintenance of the body, is absolutely essential for your child. In fact, the protein needs per kilogramme of body weight are the highest for infants, as they’re growing at a faster rate than adults, so it’s important they’re getting their fill.

You’ll likely already know which foods offer protein and that it helps our bodies grow big and strong, but how do we define it?

What exactly is protein?

Scientifically speaking, proteins are large molecules made up of different types of amino acids. The sequence of these amino acids determines the protein's structure and function.

They’re packed with nutrients, including iron, zinc, omega-3, and vitamins B and D, all of which contribute to keeping the immune system and your little one healthy and happy!

How much protein is enough for my child?

It can be difficult to know exactly how much protein your child needs and when they need it because it depends heavily on age, body size, and their level of physical activity. But the general recommendation for 1-3-year-olds is to have at least 13 grams of protein a day.

But can my child get too much protein?

An upper limit for protein has never been set, and taking in more protein can sometimes offer health benefits, especially when recovering from an injury or surgery. However, the body does not store excess protein from food and instead breaks it down into fat. So if the excess protein does lead to more calories than your little one needs, it could lead to weight gain.

Your toddler is likely to meet their protein requirements if they are getting two portions of protein per day (three for vegans). For example, a teaspoon of nut butter in their porridge, scrambled eggs as part of their lunch, and a fish pie for dinner.

What is protein and how much does my child need?

From Unii’s Toddler Nutrition Journey, we look at what protein is and how much your child needs.