In formulating optimum diets for children, it has been considered necessary to prescribe high protein as a primary food factor essential for normal growth and development. The aim of this investigation was to determine the actual minimum protein requirement in children. This may be defined as that amount of protein which will establish a positive nitrogen balance, prove adequate for growth in stature, promote normal development, and allow the child to gain weight at a normal rate. In order to establish this minimum protein requirement, advantage has been taken of various protein-sparing factors.
An excellent opportunity for this work was offered by a group of diabetic children, since they were available for study over long periods of time, their diets were accurately controlled, and they could be fed on low protein, high caloric diets, with both therapeutic and experimental advantage.
The protein consumption of normal children has been estimated by