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How Much Protein Should You Eat Per Day?

August 28, 2022

We all know that protein is an essential nutrient for our bodies, but how much protein should you eat per day? The answer may surprise you. 

How Much Protein Do You Need?

The amount of protein you need depends on a few factors, including your age, activity level, and muscle mass. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA), which is the minimum amount of protein you need to stay healthy, is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, you need at least 54 grams of protein daily. 

However, if you are active and trying to build muscle, you may need more protein than the RDA. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that active people consume 0.5 to 0.8 grams of protein per pound of body weight. So, if you weigh 150 pounds and are reasonably active, you would need 75-120 grams of protein per day. Elite athletes may need even more protein than this. 

When it comes to bodybuilding, diet and protein intake is key. What you eat will have a direct impact on your results, so it's important to make sure that you're getting the right nutrients. One nutrient that's particularly important for bodybuilders is protein. Protein provides the building blocks for muscle growth, so it's essential to consume enough if you want to see results. But how much protein do you need for bodybuilding specifically?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as everyone has different dietary needs. However, a good general rule of thumb is to consume 0.7-1+ grams of protein per pound of body weight. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should aim to consume approximately 105-150 grams of protein per day. This may seem like a lot, but remember that protein is found in many common foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and beans. By including these foods in your diet, you should be able to reach your protein goals without too much difficulty.

Where Should You Get Your Protein?

There are many sources of protein, both animal and plant-based. Animal sources include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Plant-based sources include beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and tofu. It is best to get most of your protein from whole foods rather than supplements. This is because whole foods provide other nutrients that are important for good health, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

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Written by

Ken Lu

Ken has a Bachelor's Degree of Psychology from the University of British Columbia, specializing in Sport Psychology. As well as being a Certified Personal Trainer, Ken is also a Movement & Mobility Specialist, and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. He has trained for and won the 2018 NPAA BC Men's Physique Championship.