The all-important protein

There is something you must make part of your child’s diet because if you do not, he is likely to develop reddish hair, swollen joints, have an extended belly, poor attention span and be very edgy. It is called protein.

» Proteins build up, maintain and replace tissue, cell walls, muscles, the internal organs, and even hair and nails.

» -They help in formation of hormones—which play a part in instructing the body enzymes— that help in digestion and formation of antibodies, which help fight infection.

» Proteins are used in the manufacture of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to every part of the body.

» Proteins can also serve as a source of heat and energy for the body if carbohydrates and fat intake are not high enough to meet these needs.
All the more reason your child should have his share of protein.

Sources

Animal proteins are referred to as complete proteins since they supply all essential amino acids (proteins’ basic elements). These include beef, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products. Plant proteins lack one or two essential amino acids thus known as incomplete proteins.

A vegetarian’s diet should thus contain a combination of more than one plant protein to provide a balance of a complete protein.

The following is the combination order:

■ Grains with legumes or nuts; such as, beans with maize

■ Grains with milk products; such as, peanut-buttered bread with milk

Excess protein

If a child gets too much protein, his body enters into a state known as ketosis, which is accumulation of by products of fat oxidation (ketones) in the blood. His body is also likely to suffer from constipation due to lack of fibre.

Lack of protein
Insufficient protein intake can lead to stunted growth, poor mental development, and lethargy among others. A sever case would present Kwashiorkor symptoms.

Recipe
Tasty Mango Chicken

Ingredients

» Boneless, skinless chicken breast
Vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion
A can of coconut miIk
Four well-ripe mangoes
» Salt to taste

How to prepare

» Chop the onion, crash garlic and put them in different bowls
» -Peel and slice the four mangoes into small cubes in a bowl
» Cut the chicken breasts into quarters
» Fry the garlic and onions lightly in oil until they are golden brown
» Add coconut milk, and half of the sliced mangoes and the chicken breast
» Bring to a gentle boil, and then reduce heat. Steam for about 15 minutes
» Ensure the coconut milk does not separate by not bringing it to a rapid boil
» Once the chicken is cooked, add salt to taste and add the remaining mangoes and stir
» Serve while hot with white rice, sauce and a salad as preferred.

END:BL30/18