Is protein powder safe for children?

Question

I have a very picky 3 1/2-year-old who will not eat meat. (If he could live on crackers and applesauce, he would be very happy.)

He does eat Rice Crispies for breakfast. I have started hiding things in it. I mix in applesauce, a liquid vitamin, and some ground flaxseed. (I know it sounds strange, but he eats it). Do you think it would be okay to add in some protein powder as well?

Answer 1

If he isn't getting protein from meats or peanutbutter or soy based products then it might be a good idea to so protein powder.  My son is 3 1/2 and he doesn't eat much meat and the nutrionist suggested to me that i should start using protein powder in his fruit smoothies or in his yogurt things like that so he is still getting some protein.

Answer 2

dout it!!!

Answer 3

No, the protien in protien powerds is made for the adult digestive system not small children.  (read the lable I'm bet it says not for under a certain age...there is a reason that is there).  Protien powders can be harmful to a child's liver.  NEVER give anything other than what the peditrician says you can give to your child.  Protien doesn't come just in meat, it comes in may vegetables and other products Start reading lables.

Answer 4

My daughters Dr. started her on the Carnation Instant Breakfast when she was 11/2. It's like protein powder, you just add it to milk. I put the milk on my daughters cereal, or got the chocolate flavored kind and she loved it.

Answer 5

That is something I would ask a doctor about before doing. Have you tried pediasure (nutritional drink) or Nutripals bars. The stuff is good for picky eaters. It has vitamins and protein in it.

Answer 6

I don't think I would add protein powder.  It may have too much of a given amino acid and be unhealthy for him.  There were body builders who got problems after eating protein powder that had too much of a certain type of amino acid.

I would stick to a vitamin and natural protein sources, especially milk.  Try chicken nugggets, most kids eat that, or cheese or yogurt.  Possibly egg.  Those are great protein choices that are natural and safe.

Answer 7

I make my kids cereal bars when they're bein real picky.  Nutritious, if a bit sugary.  And I'll give the kids slim-fast with their meals occasionally, to make sure they get plenty of vitamins.