12/05/2024
We often overlook protein as a crucial part of our nutrition, especially as we get older and our metabolisms start to slow down. But getting sufficient protein is absolutely essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting a healthy metabolism, and fueling your fitness goals!
So how much protein do you really need? The amounts can vary quite a bit depending on your lifestyle and goals, with my clients I like to use the following as a rule of thumb:
For a sedentary lifestyle: 1.2 g per kg of body weight
For an active lifestyle: 1.4 - 1.6 g per kg
If your goal is weight loss: 1.6 - 1.8 g per kg
For endurance athletes: 1.4 - 1.7 g per kg
For high intensity athletes: 1.4 - 2.0 g per kg
If you want to build muscle: 1.8 - 2.4 g per kg
As you can see, the leaner and more active you are, the more protein you need to supply your body with amino acids to repair and grow muscle tissue. Prioritize lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, lean red meat, fish, eggs, greek yogurt and protein powder.
Donāt slack on your protein intake. Along with resistance training, it is one of the most important factors for retaining/building strength and muscle mass as well as building a faster metabolism. Fuel your body properly and youāll be amazed at the transformation.