Use of Protein Shakes in Pediatric Eating Disorders

Protein shakes and nutritional supplements are sometimes used in the treatment of pediatric eating disorders, but their role must be carefully considered. While they can provide essential nutrients and calories, their use should be monitored by medical professionals to ensure they support recovery rather than reinforce disordered eating behaviors.

When Are Protein Shakes Used in Pediatric Eating Disorder Treatment?

·         Weight Restoration & Nutritional Rehabilitation

o   When a child is severely underweight or struggling to meet daily caloric needs, protein shakes (or complete meal replacements) can help restore weight in a controlled way

o   These shakes provide calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for growth and healing

·         For ARFID & Sensory-Based Food Avoidance

o   Children with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) often have extreme food aversions and may struggle to eat solid foods

o   Nutritional shakes can bridge the gap while working on gradual food exposure therapy

·         To Support Growth & Development

o   If a child is failing to meet their growth milestones, doctors may recommend high-calorie, nutrient-dense supplements

o   Shakes containing calcium, vitamin D, and iron can prevent bone loss and anemia

Risks & Potential Concerns of Using Protein Shakes

·         May Reinforce Liquid Diet Dependence

o   Some children may become overly reliant on shakes and struggle to reintegrate solid foods

o   Long-term reliance on shakes instead of whole foods can delay sensory and texture adaptation

·         Overuse Can Lead to Avoidance of Whole Foods

o   If used as a meal replacement too frequently, protein shakes can reduce the variety of foods a child is willing to eat

o   Eating disorder recovery should focus on rebuilding a balanced diet with real foods

·         Unregulated Protein Supplements Can Be Harmful

o   Many commercial protein powders contain excessive protein, artificial sweeteners, or additives that may not be safe for children

o   Too much protein can stress the kidneys and interfere with calcium absorption

·         Should Not Be Used for Muscle Building in ED Recovery

o   Some teens, especially boys with muscle dysmorphia, may misuse protein shakes in an attempt to gain muscle while restricting food intake

o   Excessive protein consumption without adequate calories can be dangerous

Types of Nutritional Shakes Used in Pediatric ED Recovery

·         Medical-Grade Nutritional Supplements

o    Pediasure, Ensure Plus, Boost Kid Essentials

§  These are balanced, doctor-recommended options for children with growth or weight concerns

·         Whole-Food-Based Smoothies

o    Homemade shakes with nut butters, fruits, yogurt, and milk are better alternatives to processed protein powders

o    This helps reintroduce real foods with a variety of textures and flavors

·         High-Calorie Shakes for Severe Malnutrition

o    Children with anorexia nervosa or extreme food restriction may require prescribed calorie-dense shakes for weight restoration.

When Should Protein Shakes Be Avoided?

·         If a child is using them as a substitute for real meals instead of integrating solid foods

·         If they are being misused for weight control, muscle gain, or diet restriction

·         If they reinforce food fears or texture aversions rather than expanding food variety

·         If they contain unsafe additives, stimulants, or excessive protein for a child’s needs

Best Practices for Using Protein Shakes in Pediatric ED Treatment

·         Use under medical supervision

o    A dietitian or doctor should monitor intake to ensure balanced nutrition

·         Pair with real food

o    Protein shakes should be used alongside meals, not as a sole food source

·         Gradually transition to whole foods

o    Goal is to increase food variety and texture tolerance over time

·         Choose high-quality, whole-food options

o    Opt for natural, nutrient-dense ingredients instead of artificial protein powders

·         Address underlying fears or restrictions

o    If a child refuses solid foods, therapy (e.g., CBT, exposure therapy, sensory integration) is essential

Final thoughts

Protein shakes can be a helpful tool in pediatric eating disorder recovery when used appropriately. However, they should never replace the goal of reintroducing a balanced, whole-food diet. Medical guidance is essential to ensure they support healthy weight restoration without reinforcing restrictive behaviors.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate help, please contact a healthcare professional or crisis intervention service immediately.