How Much Protein Do You Actually Need

Protein is required for our bodies to function normally. It aids in the development of muscle, the processing of food, and the overall feeling of well-being. It can be found in a wide range of foods. Meats, fish, eggs, and dairy products are the best sources, and that doesn't mean just meat! There are plenty of other sources out there that are rich in protein such as beans, lentils, and tofu which is a great alternative for vegetarians looking to get more protein in their diet without having to eat meat all the time. But have you ever considered how much protein you should consume in order to maintain your health? Protein is a necessary nutrient that helps the body build and maintain muscle mass, but it can also cause health problems if consumed in excess.

So how much protein do we actually need?

The amount of protein that you need really depends on your weight, height, and activity level.  Your personal needs will change based on these factors, but Protein's Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is a modest 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight is a good range to aim for each day (so about 56 - 140g) if you want to maintain health and fitness levels without sacrificing too much in the way of other nutrients like carbohydrates or fat. 

The RDA is the amount of a nutrient that is required to meet one's basic nutritional needs. In some ways, it's the bare minimum individuals need to avoid becoming ill — not the exact amount individuals should eat every day. This equates to 56 grams of sugar per day for the average male and 46 grams of sugar per day for the average female. To determine your daily protein intake, you can multiply your weight in pounds by 0.36.

A diet high in protein can have a negative impact on body function. Excessive protein consumption has been linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis. It’s also possible that consuming too much of this macronutrient can lead to negative side effects such as kidney problems and bad breath - if you consume more than 35% of your daily calories from protein, there may be long-term consequences. Certain sources of protein like meat, dairy products, or processed foods can increase the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease or stroke over time so it's important not only to know which types are healthier but also how much is safe per day.

Protein's importance in our daily lives is frequently overlooked. Knowing how much protein we require can help us make better meal decisions or even give us a boost to get through our workouts.