Protein Sources For Optimal Child Growth Apart From Milk

Sumber protein untuk pertumbuhan anak yang optimal (Freepik)

JAKARTA - Protein is one of the essential nutrients for the body that has many sources, both from animals and vegetables. In addition to milk, which is often considered as the main source of protein, there are many other alternatives such as eggs, fish, chicken meat, nuts, tofu, and tempeh.

All of this can be a varied choice to optimally meet children's nutritional needs. Nutritionist Dr. dr. Luciana B. Sutanto, MS. SpGK (K) highlighted the importance of public understanding of the diversity of protein sources that can be utilized.

"Susu is often considered as the main source of protein. In fact, there are many other alternatives that are equally good," he explained as quoted by ANTARA.

Dr. Lucy, as she is familiarly called, emphasizes that proteins have a crucial role in supporting growth, muscle development, and strengthening the child's immune system.

He explained that milk is indeed a source of protein that is easy to consume and has complete nutritional content. However, he also reminded that protein can be obtained from various other food ingredients that are no less nutritious.

For example, fish other than protein-rich also contain good omega-3 fatty acids for brain development. Meanwhile, nuts not only contain protein but also fiber that supports digestive health. "The child's need for protein can be met by combining various sources of this food," he explained.

Lucy added that variations in protein sources are important to ensure that children get the various nutrients their bodies need. "Each food ingredient has unique benefits. With the right combination, children will get whole nutrition," she said.

In the context of government programs such as Free Nutrition Food (MBG), protein sources can also be adjusted to local potentials. Spokesperson for the Presidential Communication Office (PCO), Philips Jusario Vermonte, explained that in areas that are not cow centers, milk can be replaced with other sources of protein, such as eggs or fish, without reducing nutritional value.

According to Philips, this replacement was carried out based on recommendations from nutritionists and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), which ensures that all menus still meet nutritional adequacy standards.

The management of the menu is supervised by the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) to ensure that the child's nutritional needs are met properly.

Dr. Lucy reminded that food selection must be adjusted to individual needs. "The number and type of protein sources need to be considered so that children are not only healthy, but also grow optimally," he concluded.