All good mums and dads worry about their child's diet, and whether they're getting all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals they should be getting.
But it’s tough for parents of fussy eaters who don’t like meat.
Maybe it’s the texture, or the flavour, or something completely different, but it’s common enough for kids to turn their noses up at the red stuff.
Unfortunately for parents, there’s a real chance that these kids are missing out on the most important essential nutrient they need – protein.
It’s vital for growth and development, as well as carrying blood around the body, so it’s not negotiable.
But the good news is there are plenty of protein-packed foods out there…
Eggs
As any gym junkie will tell you, eggs are all about the protein. And the great thing about them is they can be cooked in various ways.
If your little one refuses to eat them hard-boiled, try scrambling them and serving them on toast with some salt and pepper.
Nuts
Not only do nuts make for a great snack, they can also be added to a wide range of meals. A handful of almonds give a bit of crunch to your child’s morning porridge, while pine nuts make a nice addition to stir-fries or salads (if you can get them to eat those!)
Peanut butter on toast is another idea on occasion, but go easy on it as it’s relatively high in saturated fat.
Fish
As well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy brain function and growth, fish is packed with protein so it’s a great alternative to meat.
Plus, as it’s lower in saturated fat, it’s healthier. From baking to frying and popping it into some pastry, there are plenty of ways to cook fish. And don't forget the humble tuna sandwich or wrap, which is lovely with a bit of mayonnaise.
Soy
From soy milk to tofu, soy is another alternative, and one that’s becoming more and more popular. It’s low in fat but high in protein, and it's a great alternative to meat or chicken in curries, stir-fries and salads.
Porridge
Oats are among the healthiest grains on the planet.
They are filled with healthy fibres, magnesium, manganese and several other nutrients. Try getting your child into the porridge habit in the mornings by making it as tasty as you can. We love porridge made with milk, topped with honey and cinnamon. It's even better with chopped banana on top!
Milk
Milk is a great source of protein, and is packed with calcium too. But if your child’s not big into the white stuff, other dairy products make for great alternatives.
Natural yoghurt is fab mixed up with honey. Although not recommended in large amounts, cheese is packed with protein, and is very filling to boot.
Beans
Most kids love beans on toast, and that’s great because beans are great sources of protein. If you want to mix it up a bit, try adding beans into stir-fries and salads.
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