Importance of proteins of animal origin in the diet of preschool
children of the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation
Importancia de las
proteínas de origen animal en la alimentación de los niños en edad preescolar
de la Fundación Cleotilde Guerrero
Ilma Verónica Holguín Cedeño*
Rodolfo Benito Zamora Velásquez*
Fabián José Zambrano Cabrera*
Lucía Del Rocío Mendoza Macías*
ABSTRACT
This
research focused on analyzing how the consumption of animal proteins affects
the growth of preschool children at the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation. The
relationship between the intake of these foods and development in terms of
weight and height was evaluated, as well as the adequacy of the diet with
respect to nutritional recommendations for this stage of growth. The study
adopted a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design, involving 120
children between 3 and 6 years old, randomly selected. For data collection,
surveys of parents or caregivers, records of the children's daily diet, and
anthropometric measurements were used. The results showed that the average
consumption of animal proteins was 15 grams per day, representing around 70% of
the recommended amount for children aged 4 to 8 years. The main source of
protein was the consumption of dairy products, which represented 40% of the
total intake. The research concludes that an adequate intake of animal protein
is essential for the growth of preschool children. It is recommended to
increase the consumption of animal proteins, particularly dairy products, to
support bone development and overall growth. It is crucial to ensure a balanced
diet that includes sufficient protein and other essential nutrients for healthy
development. This study highlights the importance of adequate nutritional
planning to optimize the well-being and comprehensive development of children.
Keywords:
proteins, growth, diet, nutrients, well-being.
RESUMEN
Esta investigación se enfocó en
analizar la importancia de proteínas de origen animal porque afecta el
crecimiento de los niños en edad preescolar en la Fundación Cleotilde Guerrero.
Al evaluar la ingesta de estos alimentos se desarrolla en términos de peso y
estatura, así como la adecuación de la dieta con respecto a las recomendaciones
nutricionales para esta etapa de crecimiento. El estudio adoptó un enfoque
cuantitativo con un diseño transversal, involucrando a 120 niños de entre 3 y 6
años, que fueron seleccionados de una manera aleatoria. Durante la recolección
de datos, se aplicaron encuestas a los padres o cuidadores, registros de la
alimentación diaria de los niños y mediciones antropométricas. Los resultados
mostraron que el consumo promedio de proteínas animales era de 15 gramos al
día, representando alrededor del 70% para niños de 4 a 8 años. La principal
fuente de proteínas fue el consumo de productos lácteos, que representó el 40%
de la ingesta total. La investigación concluye que una ingesta adecuada de
proteínas de origen animal es esencial para el crecimiento y también desarrollo
en todos los niños que se encuentran en edad preescolar. Se recomienda aumentar
el consumo de proteínas animales, particularmente productos lácteos, para
apoyar el desarrollo óseo y el crecimiento general. Es crucial asegurar una
dieta balanceada que incluya suficientes proteínas y otros nutrientes
esenciales para un desarrollo saludable. Este estudio resalta la importancia de
una planificación nutricional adecuada para optimizar el bienestar y el
crecimiento integral de los niños.
Palabras clave: proteínas, crecimiento, dieta,
nutrientes, bienestar.
INTRODUCTION
Nutrition in the early years of every child is very
important for the physical and mental growth of children. Animal proteins play
a central role in every preschool child's nutrition, due to their high content
of essential amino acids and other nutrients that promote growth, cognitive
development and overall health. In the context of the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation,
where we work with children in vulnerable situations, the inclusion of these
proteins in the diet becomes even more relevant. Animal proteins are essential
in the nutrition of preschool children, as they provide amino acids and
nutrients that favor growth, cognitive development and disease prevention.
At the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation, the application
of foods in children's diets are fundamental aspects of its goal to enrich the
quality of life of the youngest children. In addition, the nutritional
education offered by the foundation ensures that families can apply this
knowledge at home, promoting a healthier and more balanced diet. Access to
animal proteins not only positively impacts the physical development of
children, but also contributes to their long-term academic success and
emotional well-being.
In addition to being high-quality protein,
animal-based foods provide other essential nutrients, such as iron, vitamin
B12, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, which are critical to children's overall
health. Therefore, a balanced diet that includes animal protein is crucial to
ensure that children grow up healthy, strong and with the ability to reach
their full physical and mental potential.
The importance of protein in children's growth
During the preschool stage, children go through a
process of rapid growth and development, which increases their nutritional
requirements. Foods such as protein are essential in the formation and repair
of body tissues, and contribute to the production of enzymes, compounds
necessary for the proper functioning of the body, .
Therefore, the children who attend the Cleotilde
Guerrero Foundation, many of them come from families with limited resources,
where access to high quality food can be scarce. This makes the inclusion of
animal proteins in their diet especially important, as these foods not only
provide protein, but also other nutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin B12,
which are essential for healthy growth.
Proteins are composed of amino acids, because they are
the basic units that the body uses to create and repair tissues. Of the 20
amino acids that the body needs, nine are considered essential, which means
that the body does not produce them, which means that they must be supplemented
in the diet. Proteins of animal origin are considered to be of high biological
value because they contain all the essential amino acids in the right
proportions.
For growing children, this is particularly important
because their bodies are in a constant phase of development, and an adequate
intake of amino acids is vital for the formation of new cells and tissues.
Animal proteins enable them to obtain the essential amino acids they need to
maintain healthy growth, strengthen their immune system and develop their
brain, .
Animal proteins and the impact on cognitive
development
When consuming animal-based proteins in childhood has
been linked to improved cognitive ability and better school performance. This
is because amino acids present in proteins are important for the formation of
neurotransmitters, which play a fundamental role in brain function. For
example, dopamine and serotonin depend on a sufficient intake of certain amino
acids.
Likewise, omega-3 fatty acids, present in fish such as
salmon and sardines, are essential for the development of the brain and
eyesight. These fatty acids promote neuronal plasticity, which improves
learning capacity and long-term memory. In environments where children do not
have regular access to foods rich in omega-3, as is the case in some families
served by the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation, ensuring consumption of animal
protein can have a significant impact on cognitive development.
Lean meats, fish, eggs and dairy products are examples
of foods rich in animal protein that provide essential nutrients that are
easily digested and absorbed. In addition, these foods also contain other
important nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for
bone development and strengthening. In combination with a balanced diet, animal
proteins help ensure proper physical growth in children.
Prevention of nutritional deficiencies
In many regions, especially in areas with high levels
of poverty, diets based primarily on plant foods may be insufficient to meet
children's protein needs. Although plant proteins are also beneficial, they
often lack certain essential amino acids, which can limit their ability to
support proper growth and development. This is exacerbated in preschool
children, whose need for nutrients is high due to their rapid growth.
By including animal-based proteins in children's
diets, the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation can prevent problems such as
malnutrition and anemia. For example, the iron present in red meat is more
easily absorbed by the body compared to the iron found in vegetables, which
reduces the risk of developing anemia, a condition that negatively affects
children's learning ability and energy, .
Children's immune systems are in a developmental
stage, so they need a diet that helps strengthen their defenses. Animal
proteins provide other key nutrients, such as zinc and vitamin B12, which are
essential for maintaining healthy immune function, . A robust immune system is
essential for children to resist common childhood infections and illnesses.
Animal protein helps the body produce sufficient antibodies and immune cells,
which enables them to effectively fight off viruses and bacteria. Maintaining
an adequate intake of animal protein helps prevent recurring illnesses that can
negatively affect children's growth and overall well-being.
Challenges and solutions to animal protein inclusion
For many low-income families, access to animal-based
proteins can be limited by economic factors. In this regard, the Cleotilde
Guerrero Foundation plays an important role not only by providing protein-rich
foods to children, but also by educating parents on how to incorporate
accessible and nutritious sources of protein into the family diet. By
encouraging the consumption of products such as eggs, milk and fish, which are
often more accessible than other protein sources, the foundation helps improve
the nutritional quality of children without imposing an undue financial burden
on families.
In addition, by teaching parents and caregivers about
the importance of animal protein in children's diets, and how to combine
different foods to ensure a balanced diet, they are empowered to make informed
decisions about their children's nutrition, even in situations of economic
constraint.
Animal proteins in a balanced diet
Although animal proteins are essential for child
development, it is important that they are part of a balanced diet that
includes other food groups as well. Carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins and
minerals are also essential for children's well-being. Combining animal
proteins with fruits, vegetables and whole grains ensures that children receive
complete nutrition that supports their growth and development in all areas. At
the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation, implementing a whole food approach, where protein
sources are balanced with other nutritious foods, ensures that children not
only grow up physically strong, but also mentally healthy and with a greater
ability to learn and socialize.
Combining animal-based proteins with fruits,
vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats such as olive oil or avocados allows
children to have complete and balanced nutrition, which contributes to their
long-term health. Encouraging good eating habits from an early age helps
prevent health problems in adulthood, such as obesity and cardiovascular
disease.
The amount of protein children need depends on their
age, weight and activity level. Protein requirements change as children grow,
as their bodies are constantly developing and require nutrients to build
muscles, tissues and organs. It is important to offer a variety of foods that
provide protein from both animal and plant sources to ensure proper and
balanced development.
o From 1 to 3 years old**: they need approximately 13
grams of protein per day.
o From 4 to 8 years**: they require about 19 grams per day.
o From 9 to 13 years of age**: 34 grams per day is
recommended.
MATERIALS
AND METHODS
The research was developed with a quantitative
approach to analyze numerically the information obtained through surveys and
physical measurements. This approach allowed us to perform a statistical
analysis in order to understand the growth of children through protein
nutrition. The type of research applied was descriptive and cross-sectional,
whose purpose was to analyze the role of protein in the diet of preschool
children and how it influences their development and growth.
Being of cross-sectional design, the data were
collected in a specific period, providing a clear view of the nutritional
status at that time. Identification of diet-related growth patterns can be
facilitated. The methodology also allowed assessment of the impact of animal
protein on child development.
Population and Sample
o Target population: the study population included
children aged 3 to 6 years attending the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation.
o Sample: a representative sample of 120 preschool
children was selected through random sampling. In addition, factors such as
age, previous nutritional status and socioeconomic environment were taken into
account to ensure a balanced sample.
Data Collection Instruments
o Parent or caregiver questionnaires: a structured
questionnaire was used to collect detailed information on eating habits,
focusing on protein-rich food.
o Food records: representatives or parents completed a record of the children's
daily diet for several days, in order to estimate the amount and frequency of
protein intake.
o Anthropometric measurements: weight and height
measurements were taken and calculations were made using the Nelson technique
and the Federico Gómez Santos technique to obtain the theoretical weight and
height.
Procedure
o Application of questionnaires: parents or caregivers
were interviewed with the aim of obtaining information on eating habits,
focusing on the frequency with which the children consumed foods such as meat,
eggs, fish and dairy products.
o Nutritional assessment: the data collected through the questionnaires were
used to calculate the daily intake of animal protein compared to nutritional
recommendations.
o Monitoring and follow-up: over a period of three
months, the children's anthropometric data were recorded, assessing how animal
protein intake affected their growth in terms of weight and height, all carried
out through the promotoras.
Data Analysis
1. Descriptive statistics: were used to organize the
data on protein intake and physical measurements of the children, calculating
mean values and dispersion for each variable.
2. Correlation: a correlational analysis was applied
to determine protein intake and variations in growth indicators, such as weight
and height.
Ethical Aspects
It was ensured that the research complied with ethical
principles. Data were collected through the parents of each of the children,
guaranteeing privacy in obtaining the information. The measurements were
carried out under the awareness of the rights of the participants.
RESULTS
Para
la muestra se tomaron datos de 120 niños alrededor de 3 a 6 años de edad que
asisten a la Fundación Cleotilde Guerrero. La muestra se distribuyó de la
siguiente manera: 40 niños de 3 años, 34 de 4 años, 22 de 5 años y 24 de 6
años. La composición por género fue de 53% niños y 47% niñas. En cuanto a la
situación socioeconómica, el 65% de las familias pertenecían a un nivel
medio-bajo y el 35% a un nivel bajo.
Ingesta
de Proteínas de Origen Animal
La
evaluación en la ingesta de proteínas se realizó a través de encuestas a padres
o cuidadores, así como mediante el análisis de registros alimentarios.
Consumo
Diario Promedio: los datos indicaron un consumo promedio de 15 gramos de
proteínas animales al día, que es alrededor del 70% entre 4 a 8 años (19
gramos).
Fuentes
Principales de Proteínas: los productos lácteos constituyeron el 40% del
consumo de proteínas, las carnes magras el 30%, los huevos el 20% y el pescado
el 10%.
Frecuencia
de Consumo: el 80% de los niños consumió productos lácteos diariamente, el 60%
carne, el 50% huevos y el 30% pescado. Esto muestra una mayor prevalencia en el
consumo de lácteos y carnes en comparación con pescado y huevos.
Mediciones
Antropométricas
Peso
y Estatura: al inicio, el peso promedio era 14.5 kg y la estatura promedio 93
cm. Después de tres meses, el peso promedio aumentó a 15.2 kg y la estatura a
95 cm, indicando un crecimiento consistente con las expectativas para su edad.
El
IMC: el IMC al inicio fue de 15.4 kg/m² y subió a 15.7 kg/m² al final del
estudio. La mayoría de los niños (75%) estaba en el rango de IMC normal, el 15%
tenía un IMC ligeramente bajo y el 10% estaba en el rango superior.
Relación
entre Consumo de Proteínas y Crecimiento
Correlación
Positiva: hay una correlación positiva entre el consumo de proteínas animales y
el incremento en peso y estatura (r = 0.45, p < 0.01). Esto sugiere que una
mayor ingesta de proteínas animales está relacionada con un mejor crecimiento
en estos aspectos.
Efectos
de las Diferentes Fuentes de Proteínas: la ingesta de productos lácteos mostró
una relación más fuerte con el aumento en la estatura (r = 0.50, p < 0.01)
en comparación con la carne, los huevos y el pescado, posiblemente debido al
contenido de calcio en los lácteos.
Impacto
del Consumo de Carne y Pescado: la carne y el pescado también tuvieron efectos
positivos, pero menos marcados en comparación con los lácteos, sugiriendo que
estas fuentes de proteínas tienen un impacto menor en el crecimiento relativo a
los productos lácteos.
Adecuación
Nutricional
Ingesta
Recomendada: el 70% de los niños no alcanzó la cantidad recomendada de
proteínas animales. Esta deficiencia puede tener implicaciones para el
desarrollo físico y la salud general.
Deficiencias
Nutricionales: se observaron deficiencias en micronutrientes como hierro y
vitamina B12, especialmente en los niños con menor consumo de carne y pescado.
Recomendaciones:
se recomienda aumentar el consumo de proteínas animales en la dieta para alcanzar
los niveles recomendados de nutrientes esenciales. Incluir carne, pescado y
productos lácteos en la dieta puede mejorar el crecimiento y desarrollo
general.
Desarrollo
Cognitivo
Aunque
no se midió directamente el desarrollo cognitivo, se puede inferir que una
adecuada ingesta de proteínas animales, especialmente productos lácteos ricos
en calcio, podría beneficiar el desarrollo cerebral y cognitivo. La correlación
positiva entre el consumo de proteínas y el crecimiento físico sugiere que una
nutrición adecuada puede apoyar el desarrollo cognitivo.
Variabilidad
Individual: las necesidades nutricionales pueden variar entre los niños, y los
hábitos alimentarios pueden influir en los resultados.
Precisión
de los Registros Alimentarios: la exactitud de los datos de consumo depende de
la precisión de los registros alimentarios proporcionados por los cuidadores,
lo que podría introducir errores.
DISCUSSION
Research
has shown that adequate animal protein intake is associated with positive
physical growth in preschool children. To maximize health and developmental
benefits, it is important to ensure a balanced diet that includes sufficient
animal protein along with other essential nutrients. Improving
children's nutrition through animal protein feeding to safeguard the
development of children at the Cleotilde Guerrero Foundation.
This study shows that an adequate intake of animal
protein is associated with improvements in the growth and development of
preschool children. In addition, dairy products contribute significantly to
weight and height gain, highlighting their crucial role in children's physical
development. Although children consume animal proteins, 70% do not reach the
recommended daily amount. This deficiency can negatively influence their
growth, highlighting the need to adjust diets to ensure adequate protein intake.
The results indicate that dairy products have a more
noticeable effect on growth compared to other sources such as meat, fish and
eggs. This suggests that increasing dairy consumption may be particularly
beneficial for children's bone development. To promote optimal growth and
improve overall health, it is advisable to increase the amount of animal
protein in children's diets. Incorporating a variety of these proteins can
ensure adequate intake of nutrients essential for physical development and
potentially support cognitive development as well.
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*Mgtr. – Docente
Investigador de la Universidad de Guayaquil, ilma.holguinc@ug.edu.ec, https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5493-5416
*Mgtr. – Docente
Investigador de la Universidad de Guayaquil, rodolfo.zamorav@ug.edu.ec, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8203-4719
*Mgtr. – Docente
Investigador de la Universidad de Guayaquil, fabian.zambranoc@ug.edu.ec, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3528-4045
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Investigador de la Universidad de Guayaquil, lucia.mendoza@ug.edu.ec, https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0265-4449