Role of Arginine in Kids
During the first five years of life, all children have the same opportunity to grow taller as long as they have access to sufficient nutrition and a nurturing environment free from illness. That’s because essential nutrients are absolutely vital for bone growth.
Clinical study showed stunted children have lower serum levels of Arginine compared to non-stunted children* and Arginine consumption has been associated with increased growth velocity in children.
Arginine is found in protein-rich foods such as nuts, grains, legumes, meat, seafood, eggs, and dairy products. Arginine promotes the multiplication of cells at the growth plate in bones to help bones grow longer.
If the diet is unable to provide the necessary nutrients such as Arginine for the development of the child, parents may consider supplementing their dietary nutrition to improve nutrient absorption.
*Based on an observational study in healthy children with lower arginine intake of < 2.2g/d compared with an arginine intake between 2·5 and 3·2 g/d and protein intake < 58 van Vught et al. Brit J Nutr. 2013;109:1031-9