Sources of Protein for Toddlers With Egg & Nut Allergies

Your toddler requires 0.55 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day, according to the Baylor College of Medicine. Depending on your child's weight, this averages between 13 and 19 grams daily. When you have a child with an allergy to eggs, tree nuts or peanuts, finding ways to ensure your toddler is getting enough can be a struggle. Learning other sources can help you make creative snacks and meals that fit the bill.

  1. Meat, Poultry and Fish

    • Feeding your toddler a variety of meats can boost his protein intake significantly. A 3-ounce serving of chicken breast, which is about the size and thickness of the palm of your hand or a deck of cards, boasts 26 grams of protein. Other substantial sources include white turkey meat, lean cuts of beef and fish, such as haddock, salmon and tuna. If your picky eater balks at meat, tuck it inside of favorite dishes, such as ground turkey in macaroni and cheese.

    Dairy

    • Dairy is often overlooked, but can be a source of protein preschoolers enjoy. Blend 1/2 cup of cottage cheese with fruit for a tasty breakfast, snack or dessert that provides 13 grams of protein. Toddlers might enjoy cheese sliced into creative shapes, mozzarella string cheese or cream cheese spread on waffles. Offer treats such as flavored milk, yogurt with fruit and frozen yogurt or ice cream cones for occasional protein-rich treats your little one will love.

    Beans and Peas

    • Although peanuts are legumes, most people with nut allergies can safely eat other types, such as black beans, chickpeas lentils. Many toddlers enjoy eating edamame, which are soy beans still in the pod. To eat boiled or steamed edamame, kids can place the pods to their mouths and pop the beans inside. Roasted chickpeas are another fun snack, reminiscent of popcorn or nuts. For a lunch idea, spread refried beans on a tortilla and top with cheese.

    Other Snacks

    • Snacks for your little one don't have to be boring to be safe. Put together homemade trail mix with raisins, pretzels and sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Spread sunflower or soy butter onto celery, crackers or toast. For a snack that's a source of protein and a source of giggles, dissolve two packages of flavored gelatin into 2 1/2 cups of boiling water. Pour the mixture into a 13-inch by 9-inch pan, refrigerate until firm and cut into jiggly shapes.

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