Tasty, kid-friendly and easy-to-use protein powders you can buy online.
Kids are notorious snackers. And the snacks kids love—crackers, candy and chips—are often lacking in essential nutrients. Protein powders for kids can help parents ensure their children get the nutrients they need. However, choosing the right one can be challenging with so many options available.
To make it easier, nutrition experts share advice on what to look for when buying kids' protein powders, plus fun ways to incorporate more protein into your child's diet.
Daniel Chavez, a licensed dietitian at Fay Nutrition, says that protein is important for children's growth, development and overall health.
"Proteins are the building blocks for muscles, tissues, organs, and the brain," Chavez says. "They play a crucial role in the immune system and are necessary for producing enzymes and hormones that regulate various metabolic processes, such as digestion and metabolism."
The amount of protein that children need each day depends on their age. According to information from The Canadian Government, if they are between 1 and three years old, your child's protein intake should be 13 grams per day. Kids aged 4 to 8 years old need 19 grams of protein per day and kids aged 9 to 13 years old need 34 grams of protein per day.
Protein powder is a dietary supplement that, in short, is high in protein. The protein in these products can come from various food sources. "For example, whey protein is made from milk," explains Chavez. "It's a leftover product from making cheese."
There are also plant-based protein powders. "These get their protein from plants like peas, rice, hemp and soy," adds Chavez. "Kids who can't have whey or casein (another milk protein) can use these instead."
According to Chavez, protein powder offers some advantages for children. He explains, "It allows kids to reach their daily protein goals. Underweight kids can use it to help with weight gain. Young sports players can have protein powder to get an additional protein source."
Chavez also says that kids protein shakes can help picky eaters and those following a vegetarian diet who may not consume enough protein-rich foods like meat, dairy, or legumes. "Protein powders can fill this nutritional gap for children with food aversions or limited palates," he adds.
Check for nutrients and quality
When choosing protein powders, Chavez suggests that parents should check that they are high-quality and contain all the different types of protein that kids need.
He explains to Today's Parent, "The best protein powders will have whey, casein, and soy, which provide complete proteins with all the essential amino acids. Also, look for products that have been tested by independent organizations to verify they are pure and of good quality."
Avoid products with sugar and allergens
Kids tend to eat too many sweets, so it's best to pick protein powders that don't have much added sugar. If your child has food allergies or digestive issues, Chavez recommends thoroughly inspecting the ingredient list for allergens or trigger foods. For instance, pea protein may bring on a reaction in kids who have peanut allergies.
Consult with your pediatrician
It's also important for parents to talk to their child's doctor or a nutritionist before giving their child any protein powder. "These medical experts can give advice that is specific to that child, based on their health and nutrition needs," says Chavez.
Protein powders can be added to a child's diet in many fun ways, explains Gina Aliotti, a certified personal trainer, specialist in fitness nutrition, and certified CrossFit instructor.
"You can create a simple ready-to-drink shake by adding protein powder into a smoothie with fruit, or add it to pancake, waffle, or muffin mixes to boost the protein content of baked goods," she explains. "Another simple idea is to mix it with milk and pour over cereal."
Protein powders are usually safe for most people to use, unless you are allergic to milk products, according to Aliotti. But like most supplements, they shouldn't become a replacement for balanced meals.
"If you are not allergic to milk, you might have some extra gas from the lactose in the protein powder or from your body digesting the protein," she explains. "But these side effects are minor, don't last long and can be avoided if you choose a higher quality protein product."
Mia Syn, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian, suggests that too much protein from protein powders can cause problems for children. "If kids take too much protein from these powders, it can put extra stress on their kidneys," she says. "That's why you need to be careful when using protein powders with children."
This protein powder contains 20 grams of protein from plants, 26 minerals and vitamins, 3 grams of fibre, and added calcium and vitamin D. It also has a tasty chocolate flavour, which makes it a good option for picky eaters.
One verified Amazon customer writes, "I’ve been a frequent regular buyer of this. My kids are picky eaters and do not get enough protein. We’ve tried other kinds but they were just 'too gross'. So now I just stick to what they like."
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This organic protein powder for kids contains 21 grams of protein, omega fatty acids, five grams of organic fibre, five grams of net carbs, and no sugar. Although it only comes in two flavours, reviewers say kids like them.
Kimberly Cichon, a verified Amazon customer, writes, "I was looking for a reasonable protein powder that would be kid-approved. This brand passed the test. The kids do prefer the Vanilla to Chocolate. It comes in handy when there is a meal skipped."
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Each serving of this protein powder contains 21 grams of protein and important vitamins and minerals like potassium, magnesium and iron. It also comes in 11 flavours that kids enjoy, including chocolate mint, cookies and cream, and peanut butter.
Natalie, a verified Amazon customer, writes, "My kids also approve of the taste...and that’s saying something."
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Sunwarrior offers an organic, plant-based protein powder for kids with 17g of protein per serving. It contains MCTs from coconut and is high in amino acids and BCAAs. Parents love this protein powder that comes in chocolate, vanilla, mocha and berry flavours, and use it for the whole family.
Nicole, a verified Amazon customer, writes, "Great product. Great taste. The adults and kids both enjoy this product. We put it in everything!"
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While protein powders provide a convenient way to help children meet their protein requirements, Aliotti says that whole high-protein foods should be the primary source.
"Excellent whole food alternatives include eggs, chicken, turkey, steak, fish and yogurts," she explains. "Beans, nuts and nut butter are also great choices, although lower in protein content.
The key is to make protein a priority at every meal. Aliotti advises. "Rather than a Nutella sandwich, opt for a higher protein, lower sugar option like turkey and cheese."
Experts
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Courtney Leiva has over 11 years of experience producing content for numerous digital mediums, including features, breaking news stories, e-commerce buying guides, trends, and evergreen pieces. Her articles have been featured in HuffPost, Buzzfeed, PEOPLE, and more.