As a parent, the best thing you could hope for your child is that they grow big and strong so that they’re free to explore their potential and one day, realize it to the fullest. In terms of nutrition, this means ensuring your kid regularly gets the proper nourishment they need.
And while you may always want the best for your child, it is possible that they’re not getting the appropriate amount of essential nutrients on a daily basis. In the Philippines, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies remain prevalent problems, especially among children. Inadequate intake of key nutrients could lead to adverse effects on your child’s growth and development.
Protein and calcium are two essential building blocks for a strong and healthy body. Protein builds body mass and helps boost the body’s immunity, while calcium is essential in reaching the potential peak bone mass during those growing years and is further important in preventing osteoporosis in later years of life. A good amount of calcium in the body also plays a regulatory role in muscle functions including that of the heart muscles.
Without the right dose of the body’s calcium requirement, kids tend to have weak bones or bone deformities, and poor teeth resulting in periodontal problems. Meanwhile, protein deficiency may lead to Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) and manifest in stunting – or being short for their age – and wasting – or being underweight for their specific height.
Stunting and wasting are common among Filipino children. According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute’s latest Expanded National Nutrition Survey (2018), the percentage of stunted children under 5 years old is at 30%, while the percentage of wasted children is at 5.6% and 7.6% for children under 5 years old and children from 6 to 10 years old, respectively. The report states that wasting and stunting, along with being underweight, remain severe problems among school children.
Many factors contribute to these nutrition-related concerns, but maintaining a proper diet is key. To steer kids away from protein and calcium deficiencies, parents should especially look out for poor eating habits, junk food, and processed food. Along with providing your kids food that is rich in dietary fiber and includes green leafy vegetables and less fat, you can supplement your child’s diet with a drink like Prottie® Soymilk Drink Mix.
The first powdered soymilk drink in the Philippines, Prottie® is rich in protein and calcium and thus makes both a healthy and tasty option for kids. Coming in delicious caramel and chocolate flavors, this is a nutrient-packed drink is the right pampalakas ng katawan at pampatatag ng buto you’re sure your kids will love.
Learn more about Prottie® Soymilk Drink Mix, the Lakasarap soymilk drink that will help safeguard your kids from protein and calcium deficiencies, by clicking here. Or, purchase the product here.
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