‘Fatigue, stunted growth in kids if protein intake is low’
Bhubaneswar: A lack of protein in children’s diet can lead to stunted growth, fatigue, poor concentration and a weakened immune system and in worst cases, diseases like kwashiorkor and marasmus can strike them if there is an acute shortage, experts said on the eve of World Protein Day.
“A lack of protein in the body can lead to protein-energy malnutrition,” Soumya Sucharita Prusty, a dietician at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, said, adding, “Protein is needed for building muscle, repairing tissue and supporting bone health. It also helps maintain a healthy immune system and can act as an energy source.”
Studies indicate that 73% of Indians suffer from protein deficiency and 17% of the population struggles with issues related to being underweight.
According to the National Institute of Nutrition, the recommended daily protein intake is 0.8-1g per kg of body weight with an additional 20-30g per day advised for physically active individuals.
“Protein requirements vary with respect to age, disease states and different physiological conditions (pregnancy and lactation). A combination diet like khichdi with vegetables is very important. Locally available protein-rich foods can be added to our meals as well. Consuming protein without knowing the requirement for the body may create problems in future,” Prusty added.
Clinical nutritionist Sushri Sangita Jena said people should consume protein in a balanced way. “These days youngsters are focusing on body building and muscle growth and they are consuming excessive protein sometimes and reducing their intake of carbohydrates. Lack of proper protein intake is not good either.”
“A lack of protein in the body can lead to protein-energy malnutrition,” Soumya Sucharita Prusty, a dietician at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, said, adding, “Protein is needed for building muscle, repairing tissue and supporting bone health. It also helps maintain a healthy immune system and can act as an energy source.”
Studies indicate that 73% of Indians suffer from protein deficiency and 17% of the population struggles with issues related to being underweight.
According to the National Institute of Nutrition, the recommended daily protein intake is 0.8-1g per kg of body weight with an additional 20-30g per day advised for physically active individuals.
“Protein requirements vary with respect to age, disease states and different physiological conditions (pregnancy and lactation). A combination diet like khichdi with vegetables is very important. Locally available protein-rich foods can be added to our meals as well. Consuming protein without knowing the requirement for the body may create problems in future,” Prusty added.
Clinical nutritionist Sushri Sangita Jena said people should consume protein in a balanced way. “These days youngsters are focusing on body building and muscle growth and they are consuming excessive protein sometimes and reducing their intake of carbohydrates. Lack of proper protein intake is not good either.”
