Nutrition Experts Set 1.2-1.6g/kg Protein Target as 200g-a-Day Trend Draws Pushback
Updated
Updated · Business Insider · Aug 8
Nutrition Experts Set 1.2-1.6g/kg Protein Target as 200g-a-Day Trend Draws Pushback
1 articles · Updated · Business Insider · Aug 8
Summary
For most people, the protein “sweet spot” is about 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight—roughly 84 to 114 grams a day for a 140-pound person, experts said at a major nutrition conference.
That range appears to support muscle, metabolism, weight control and healthy aging, while people eating less overall—because of dieting, GLP-1 drugs, illness or age-related appetite loss—face the biggest risk of falling short.
Researchers said quality matters as much as quantity, urging at least one daily serving of amino-acid-rich foods such as eggs, chicken, fish or soy, with beans, whole grains and seeds rounding out the diet.
Speakers also warned protein alone will not build muscle or ensure health: resistance training, adequate carbohydrates and fiber still matter, and very high intakes can crowd out other nutrients.
Key questions remain on how much protein is too much and how intake affects heart health, immunity and long-term eating patterns, especially when high-protein diets rely on red meat or ultra-processed foods.