Protein Adequacy BUILDING BLOCK OF LIFE

While proteins are essential nutrients for all, they are especially important for the optimal growth and development of children and adolescents.

- KIRAN BALIMANE & CYNTHIA JOHN

Yet, despite its 'building block of life' status, children worldwide are not getting adequate protein. Global research indicates that one in seven school-age children is protein-deficient

Not for nothing is protein known as the building block of life. Every cell, bone and muscle in the human body contains it. Protein is essential for the growth of muscles, bones, skin and organs of children. Comprising long chains of amino acids, proteins build and repair tissues and cells, produce hormones and enzymes that regulate several bodily processes, including digestion, metabolism, and immune defence, and transport molecules (e.g, haemoglobin) to cells, tissues and the bloodstream.

While proteins are essential nutrients for all, they are especially important for the optimal growth and development of children and adolescents. With their bodies growing constantly and building new tissue, muscles, and organs, proteins provide the necessary building blocks (amino acids) of this process. Proteins ensure that children add height, weight, and enhance body structure through growth of new cells; boost neurotransmitter production, aiding memory, learning, and focus, and produce antibodies that fight infections and diseases while also repairing micro-tears in muscles, the inevitable outcome of play and exercise.