Effect of varying protein and energy intakes on nitrogen balance in Indian preschool children.

1. The effect of varying protein intake at two energy levels of 334 and 418 kJ/kg body-weight was studied in four preschool children belonging to the low socio-economic group. 2. Results indicated a curvilinear relationship between N intake and N rentention. From this relationship, the protein requirement of the children at adequate energy intake was calculated. 3. At adequate energy intake (418 kJ/kg body-weight) the protein requirement of the children was 1.33 g/kg. On decreasing the energy intake by 20% to 334 kJ/kg body-weight the protein requirement was found to be increased by 20% to 1.64 g/kg. 4. Based on this study, a safe level of protein intake for Indian preschool children subsisting on a diet based predominantly on vegetable proteins has been suggested.