What Should Be the Daily Protein Intake?

Almost never does the need for protein get presented in the form of a total number that is independent of any variables. The reason is very obvious – 200 grams of protein can be sufficient for a man weighing 80 kilograms, but it is too much for a woman weighing 50 kilograms. Therefore, the need for protein is usually dependent on weight, for example, 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. It is a much better system, suitable for most people, but still not perfect. It does not take into account the amount of fat a person has. The need of a person who weighs 80 kilograms and has 8% body fat is different than the need of a person who weighs 80 kilograms and has 20% body fat. This is because dry body mass is metabolically more active than fat tissue. Muscle tissue is the place where protein can act and interesting anabolic processes take place there. Recently, some authors have therefore started recommending protein intake in relation to dry body mass. Although this is scientifically correct, it is not always practical as not everyone is able to assess the amount of dry body mass.

Rapid assessment: approach a randomly encountered bodybuilder and tell him that the protein intake in the diet should be 0.8 g/kg of body weight. The probable most common reaction would be hysterical laughter or great indignation. However, that's exactly how much is the recommended daily intake (according to the RDA), which is listed in many textbooks and is therefore also implemented by dietitians.

Although 0.8 g/kg appears to be extremely small for someone engaged in bodybuilding, this amount can potentially meet protein demand for an inactive individual who adopts a sedentary lifestyle. Covering demand, however, is a different matter than optimal intake, which allows for better health and body shape maintenance. Numerous studies indicate that the optimal range for an inactive individual is 1.2–1.5 g/kg of body weight, which is usually highly restrictive. Elderly individuals should pay particular attention to higher protein intake as aging is associated with a gradual loss of lean mass – a process known as sarcopenia.

When we add a few workout sessions per week to the equation, RDA recommendations become insignificant. Now, we intentionally demand more from our muscles, and to regenerate and develop, they require a substantial amount of protein intake. The most widely accepted belief, which has been confirmed by numerous scientific studies, is consuming 2 or 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. This level of intake should be suitable for most people. If you don't mind consuming a high range of protein-rich products, you may consider consuming even more. Dr. Jose Antonio compared the intake of 3.4 grams and 2.3 grams of protein per kilogram in one of his studies, noting an advantage in the first group. However, there is a specific situation that requires separate consideration - weight loss. A diet with a caloric deficit is a stress factor for the body. We do not provide enough energy to support muscle regeneration and growth. Additionally, the amino acids present in muscles are used as an energy source, leading to catabolism. The less body fat, the greater the risk of muscle loss, and the more protein you need to consume to protect your figure. Eric Helms conducted an analysis of 6 studies on active individuals with a caloric deficit and suggested that during weight loss, protein consumption should range from 2.3 to 3.1 grams per kilogram of lean body mass. The less body fat, the higher the intake in this range.