How many grams of protein per day should be consumed?

It is a fairly well known fact that protein is an essential nutrient, required by the human body, for the growth and the repair of body tissues. In fact, a diet that is high in protein can be recommended for those who want to increase their muscle mass, as well as those people, who are interested in weight loss. However, since people are becoming more health conscious each day and therefore, they do not want to take any chances with the diets they are following. This means that most people are interested in knowing exactly how many grams of protein per day should be consumed, in order to avoid any risks or side effects.

How many grams of protein per day for women & men?

It is common for people to check with their fitness instructors or doctors about how many grams of protein per day they need to consume.

However, it is absolutely necessary for everyone to bear in mind that the average amount of protein per day that should be consumed may vary from one person to the other, based on factors such as age, gender, weight, levels of physical activity, and so on. Moreover, the recommended protein per day is bound to change, based on the fact that a person wants to lose weight, gain weight or increase muscle mass. Fortunately, for the people who what to know the exact amount of protein per day, that is suitable for them, there are a few ways to calculate this information.

A leading health institution in the United States of America advises both men and women to consume 0.8 grams of protein, per kilogram of body mass, on a daily basis. Therefore, a person weighing 60 kilos would be advised to consume 48 grams of protein per day. However, this formula only applies to those people who lead a fairly sedentary lifestyle. Those people who are into weight training and are interested in building their muscle mass need to follow a different formula to calculate how many grams of protein per day should be consumed by them. In such instances, anywhere between 1.2 grams and 1.8 grams of protein per day are recommended. Therefore, the same person, who weighs 60 kilos, may be advised to have between 72 grams and 108 grams of protein per day, for increasing muscle mass.

Although the best way to increase the intake of protein is by following a high protein diet, i.e., eating a diet which is high in protein rich foods, there are several protein supplements too that can also be taken. However, it is absolutely essential to consult a doctor, before adding any protein supplement to a diet.

Submitted on January 16, 2014