We’re often told we should be packing our children’s diets with fruit and vegetables, but rarely do we hear just how essential protein is.
Proteins are the building blocks of the body. The little amino acids that make up each protein can be used by our body to create cells, hormones and lots more, so you can imagine just how important they are for a growing child!
This is why we always try to include protein in our children’s diet, such as adding a Greene Farm Roast Chicken Wrap to their lunchbox. We're big fans of Greene Farm's line of chicken and turkey here at MummyPages as it tastes as good as a home-cooked chicken and isn't plumped with water like other brands. It's also gluten-free, doesn't contain additives and has a handy resealable pack.
Instead of always using bread or wraps as a delivery mechanism for protein, our MummyPages mums often give a little pot of cooked chicken or turkey for the little ones to graze on. Kids often get bored of repetitive lunches too so try something new such as Greene Farm Foods new Torn for Taste range which includes flavours such as Garlic & Rosemary Roast Chicken or Cajun Chicken Breast.
Why protein is essential for your child’s body
Growth
Protein helps your body to repair cells and make new ones, which is especially important for children who are consistently growing and developing. Protein in your child’s diet is also essential for making new skin, hair and nails
Immune system
Vitamin C plays an important part when it comes to building your little one’s immune system, but did you know that protein plays an equally important role in its development and general function? The amino acids in protein can actually be used by your body to create the antibodies that protect your child from bacteria and viruses.
Brain function
Protein builds the neurotransmitters that transfer information in our brain. As your child is growing, these neurotransmitters help them develop numerous skills like speech and language, can help your child focus in school and even affect their mood!
Muscle growth
Protein also helps your child’s muscles grow, which in turn, helps to build up their strength and improve their athletic performance. This comes in really handy during those PE classes and lunchtime games in the school yard.
Hormones
We all know the importance of hormones when it comes to a healthy body and many of these, such as insulin and somatotropin (growth hormone) are made from the amino acids found in protein.
Healing
Protein also allows for proper wound healing – perfect for those falls and scrapes your child inevitably gets into at school.
Blood
Iron is always highlighted when it comes to blood health, but did you know that a protein called haemoglobin is responsible for transporting oxygen around the body? The body can make haemoglobin, but it needs the amino acids found in food protein to do so.
How to add protein to your child's lunch
- The easiest way to include protein in a school lunch is through the sandwich or wrap. We regularly add Greene Farm Roast Chicken and Turkey to boost the protein content of our little ones' lunches. As well as being high in protein, poultry is also leaner than other types of meat, which means less fat.
- Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurts are another way to ensure your child is meeting their protein requirements.
- Adding mixed nuts to your child's lunchbox is another way of increasing the amount of protein it contains.
- A hard-boiled egg is a filling snack and also a great source of amino acids.
- Not for all children, but our kids love a little pot of hummus with carrot sticks for their small school break. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein so we're more than happy to oblige.
- Apple slices with peanut butter are another regular addition to our kids' lunchboxes.
