Logo

Home

Health Insurance

Wellness Corner

Daily Protein Requirement

How MuchProtein Do I NeedA Day?

How MuchProtein Do I NeedA Day?

Protein Do I Need

Are you wondering about how much protein to eat per day? If yes, then here is a simple explanation of what exactly protein does and how much protein is required per day to keep you fit and fine.

The term "protein" originates from the Greek expression "protos," which means "first," showing how vital it is in our nutrition. Protein is important for overall health as it helps build muscles, hair, blood, and many other important parts of our bodies. Some athletes and bodybuilders eat extra protein to get stronger muscles.

Below listed is the daily intake of protein as per different age groups:

• Infants require approximately 10 grams of protein daily.

• Children of school-going age should aim for 19-34 grams per day.

• Teenage boys should get up to 52 grams daily.

• Teenage girls should target 46 grams each day.

• Adult men typically require approximately 56 grams of protein per day.

• Adult women typically require around 46 grams daily (or 71 grams if pregnant or breastfeeding).

• According to the Institute of Medicine, your daily calories should include at least 10% but no more than 35% protein.

Daily Protein Intake for Women

Protein needs do indeed change with age, and this change is particularly notable for women. If you are a woman and curious to know how much protein should I eat per day, then here’s a brief overview:

Age Protein, g/kg body weight/day Reference weight, kgb
 Female Female
Infants   
0 to under 1 month 2.5 3.3
1 to under 2 months 1.8 4.5
2 to under 4 months 1.4 6
4 to under 12 months 1.3 8.6
Children and adolescents   
1 to under 4 years 1 13.9
4 to under 7 years 0.9 20.2
7 to under 10 years 0.9 29.3
10 to under 13 years 0.9 41
13 to under 15 years 0.9 55.5
15 to under 19 years 0.8 69.2
Adults   
19 to under 25 years 0.8 70.8
25 to under 51 years 0.8 70.7
51 to under 65 years 0.8 68.7
65 years and older 1 66.8
Pregnant women   
2nd trimester 0.9 64.6
3rd trimester 1 70
Lactating women 1.2 60.05

Was this article helpful?

Secure Your Future Today!

Share your details to explore
the best insurance options for you.

Secure Your Future Today!Secure Your Future Today!
Easiest way to manage your HDFC ERGO policies is Here

Download our new mobile app Here to manage your insurance policies

Here QR

Scan To Download