I have 4 kids ages 12, 11, 8, 6.
I want to supplement their diets with whey protein, but don’t know if I should or how much.
The two oldest are on a swim team 8 months out of the year, and in that time train 3-5 days a week with a minimum of 2 miles of swimming each training session. This includes distance work, sprint work, etc. You’d be amazed watching a 12 and 11 year old, and what they’re capable of, (but I have a proud dad perspective too).
My two youngest are very active, but obviously don’t compete yet.
Appreciate any and all advice but really need hard facts/data supported by references on whey protein intake for children.
My kids have whey protein shakes regularly. Sometimes a couple a day, but usually just one. I also mix a scoop into their oatmeal at breakfast or mix up a shake of vanilla & milk and pour it over their cereal.
I dont have kids, and I’m sure they’ll be fine with regular food ( you do feed them, dont you? haha).
But seriously, if they’re very active throw some whey in their chocolate milk or yogurt or anything. Just make it so it tastes good- they’re still kids lol.
Since they are growing, I’d assume that a large protein intake would be reasonable, for the older two children. However since they are kids and not in need of finely controlling thier carb/fat/protein intake, I think you’d be just as well of with making sure they drink alot of milk, assuming they aren’t intolerant. Whey is a dairy product after all. And since they are growing you dont need the protein only, they can use the carbs and (optional) fats, and especially the calcium.
However, I dont think there should be anything wrong with adding whey to thier diet, and if they have a good response do it, go for it. Flavored whey makes boring milk better as well!
I’m only saying this as a young person (Just 21) myself who’s favorite food is milk by far. Milk with chocolate protein powder = yum!
[quote]Kelin wrote:
Since they are growing, I’d assume that a large protein intake would be reasonable, for the older two children. However since they are kids and not in need of finely controlling thier carb/fat/protein intake, I think you’d be just as well of with making sure they drink alot of milk, assuming they aren’t intolerant. Whey is a dairy product after all. And since they are growing you dont need the protein only, they can use the carbs and (optional) fats, and especially the calcium.
However, I dont think there should be anything wrong with adding whey to thier diet, and if they have a good response do it, go for it. Flavored whey makes boring milk better as well!
I’m only saying this as a young person (Just 21) myself who’s favorite food is milk by far. Milk with chocolate protein powder = yum![/quote]
That’s a great idea. My kids love chocolate milk. I will try adding chocolate protein. I will have to put it an ovaltine container. They think I am crazy when I drink my protein drinks.
Thanks everyone. I know whey is the prime protein in baby formula so it’s benefits and safety for children are obvious.
I do provide them with good nutrition and they drink gallons of 1% milk every week.
From what I’ve been reading though, it’s good to balance out the different protein sources (i.e.- egg, whey).
My biggest concern is how much should they get? I know setting them up with optimal nutrition now as they develop will pay dividends in their young adult and adult futures.
They’re kids, they don’t really need supplements. My guess would be that it’s better to use chocolate whey instead of nesquick in milk or instead of brown sugar in oats or instead of something sugary in baking. You could use it to replace a worse alternative in your usual cooking, but I don’t think children should have a set intake daily.
My kids (11, 4) love chocolate protein in milk. I did not force it on them, they just see me drink it so much they asked to try it. I was excited about my 11 y/o girl, because it is very hard to get her to eat protein aside from chicken nuggets and hot dogs. She also asks for one before her tumbling practices which can last 2-3 hours through dinner time.