Do you know how much protein you should be eating?

The RDA for protein intake is 0.8g/kg of bodyweight per day which is about .36 grams per pound. That is on a very low end. Protein intake should really be driven by your physical activity level.

First off, what is protein? Proteins are large complex molecules that play a very important role in the body. Proteins are made up of thousands of smaller units called amino acids, which are attached to one another in long chains. Proteins are involved in chemical processes essential for life and are required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs. Protein is also a very important aid in muscle growth.

Now let's talk about the amount of protein you should be eating in regard to your activity level.

Sedentary - 1.2 to 1.8 grams per kg of body weight

Active - 1.2 to 2 grams of kg per body weight

Highly Active - 1.8 to 2 grams of kg per body weight

Intense Exercise - 1.6 grams per body weight

Muscle Building - 1.6 to 2 grams of kg per body weight

Now that you know how much you protein you should be eating, are you eating enough?