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Protein<\/a> is an essential component of every single cell in our body \u2014 it plays a huge role in everything from tissue growth and repair to DNA synthesis, cellular transport, building antibodies, muscle building<\/a>, and more. Without adequate protein, our body\u2019s ability to function optimally is compromised. (1<\/a>)<\/p>\n It\u2019s an important macronutrient for weight management. On average, MyFitnessPal members who want to lose weight get 24% of their calories from protein. Remember, 1 gram of protein contains 4 calories, so if you\u2019re eating about 1400 calories per day with a goal to lose weight, it\u2019s a good idea to try to eat about 83 grams of protein per day.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to increase protein, MyFitnessPal currently offers two high-protein Plans in-app. Check out the free 7-day Quick Start High-Protein Plan<\/a>. Want a longer term commitment to meeting those protein goals? Try the 28-day Ultimate High-Protein Plan.<\/p>\n Exactly how much protein we need<\/a> can vary depending on factors such as age, body composition, sex, health, and activity level. (2<\/a>)\u00a0<\/p>\n While there\u2019s been ongoing debate about how much protein we can absorb in a single meal, current science suggests that there\u2019s a limit to how efficiently our bodies can utilize protein at once. (3<\/a>)<\/p>\n Yes, there can be too much of a good thing<\/a>, and more protein isn\u2019t always better. (4<\/a>)\u00a0<\/p>\n Unlike carbohydrates<\/a>, which get stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle cells for later use (5<\/a>), protein doesn\u2019t have a specialized storage unit. When you eat more protein than your body needs, the excess amino acids are broken down and the nitrogenous part is excreted in urine, while the remaining carbon can be used for energy or converted into fat for storage. (4<\/a>)<\/p>\n The National Institutes of Health recommends a daily intake (Recommended Daily Allowance or RDA) of 0.8 to 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight. (6<\/a>) This amount of protein is what you need to prevent muscle loss.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the International Society of Sports Nutrition recommends 1.2 to 2 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight per day. (11<\/a>)<\/p>\nHow Much Protein Do We Really Absorb?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Protein?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How Much Protein Should You Aim for in a Day?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h2>\n
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