ABSTRACT
Protein is a key nutrient responsible for an array of biological functions including the repair and building of cellular structures such as skeletal muscle tissue. However, its reach extends far beyond tissue remodeling and growth. Dietary protein supplies the necessary amino acids required for gene activity, transport of biological molecules, energy production, synthesis of hormones, enzymes, and neurotransmitters. Protein metabolism is a dynamic process whereby proteins are constantly synthesized from and degraded into amino acids, dependent on the demand and their availability, which is reliant on dietary intake. For growth, repair, and synthesis of biologically active proteins, a positive protein balance must be achieved and the rate of protein synthesis must exceed the rate of degradation. For these reasons, adequate protein intake in children is critical for growth, development, and normal physiological function. The unique demands of growth and development experienced by children and adolescents call for a greater daily protein intake than that of adults. The recommended daily allowance for protein is 0.95 grams/kg/day for children of 4-13 years of age and 0.85 grams/kg/day for adolescents of 14-18 years of age. However, if a young individual engages in regular exercise or sport, 1.5 grams/kg/day may be necessary while a daily intake of 1.2-1.4 grams/ kg/day may be required for those participating in exhaustive endurance performance. Additionally, the body can only endogenously synthesize some amino acids, and others must be consumed in the diet; these are called essential amino acids. The essential amino acids are found in high-quality proteins such as meat, poultry, sh, eggs, and milk-based foods. Lesser-quality proteins, such as plantbased proteins, must be strategically combined to provide a child with the necessary amino acids for growth and development. And nally, though historically it has been promoted in popular press that protein consumption above what is recommended leads to adverse renal and bone effects, studies have repeatedly shown that an elevated protein intake does not result in such effects in healthy individuals. Adequate and appropriate dietary protein should be ensured by parents and coaches concerned with not only athletic performance, but also with proper growth and development.
