Protein is an essential macronutrient that is necessary for the growth and maintenance of the human body. It is a major component of muscles, organs, hair, and nails, and is also necessary for the production of hormones, enzymes, and other biochemical compounds. Protein is found in both animal and plant sources, and is generally recommended to make up 10-35% of a person’s daily caloric intake. So, how much protein should you consume per day?
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. This means that a person weighing 70 kg should consume 56 grams of protein per day. However, this is just the RDA and it is generally recommended to consume slightly more protein than the RDA. For healthy individuals, the average daily intake should range from 1.2-1.7 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. This means that a person weighing 70 kg should consume between 84-119 grams of protein per day.
For athletes and people who are looking to build muscle mass, the daily protein intake should be higher. Generally, it is recommended to consume 1.6-2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. This means that a person weighing 70 kg should consume between 112-154 grams of protein per day.
It is important to note that consuming too much protein can be harmful to your health. Eating a diet that is too high in protein can lead to dehydration, kidney stones, and calcium deficiency. Additionally, too much protein can lead to weight gain, as protein is calorie-dense.
In conclusion, the amount of protein that you should consume per day depends on your individual needs. Generally, for healthy individuals, the daily intake should range from 1.2-1.7 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. For athletes and people trying to build muscle mass, the daily protein intake should be higher, ranging from 1.6-2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. It is important to not exceed the recommended daily allowance, as too much protein can be harmful to your health.
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