Angela Onwuzoo Nutritionists say children who consume less meat and fish, which are naturally rich in high-quality proteins, essential vitamins and minerals, may experience poor brain and physical development due to protein deficiency. The experts say animal proteins like meat are the best to provide children with all the essential amino acids they need. According to nutritionists, fish is also a rich source of healthy fats such as docosahexaenoic acid, which are essential for a child’s developing brain, nervous system, and vision.
The World Health Organisation says animal foods are the best sources to fully meet the nutritional needs of children aged six to 23 months. However, despite the nutritional content of fish and meat, nutritionists said many under-five children are missing out on high-quality proteins provided by these foods due to poverty. They disclosed in separate interviews with PUNCH Healthwise, noting that such children may suffer protein deficiency, which they warned will lead to poor brain development and retarded growth Speaking with our correspondent, a community nutritionist, Charles Nkwoala, said children under five suffering from protein deficiency are also at risk of lowered immunity, fatigue, and lack of concentration.
Nkwoala, who is a former National General Secretary of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, said children are affected by poor intake of meat and fish because they require high protein for growth and development. The nutritionist, who is .