Excess protein intake a risk factor for obesity in young children

What is it about?

Dietary protein is necessary for normal child growth. However, there is evidence that excess dietary protein may increase the risk of obesity in very young children. We studied the detailed dietary records, body weight and height of over 2000 children in the UK. Our analysis found that dietary protein intakes in this sample of children tended to be higher than recommended. Furthermore, children who consumed a larger proportion of their daily energy from protein at 2 years of age were heavier and more likely to be overweight or obese at 3 years of age and at 5 years of age.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Identifying the risk factors for child obesity is crucial for controlling high child obesity rates in many countries of the world. This study advances knowledge of the dietary risk factors for obesity in very young children. It also adds to our understanding of the likely mechanisms by which diet affects body fatness.