US Dietary Guidelines Lift Protein Target to 1.2-1.6g/kg as Experts Urge More Varied Sources
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 19
US Dietary Guidelines Lift Protein Target to 1.2-1.6g/kg as Experts Urge More Varied Sources
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 19
New US guidance recommends adults consume 1.2-1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, up from 0.8 g/kg, though some nutrition experts say the increase could encourage less balanced eating.
Nutrition specialists say the bigger issue is protein quality and variety: whole foods are preferred over ultra-processed products, and mixing animal and plant sources can better deliver fiber, vitamins and minerals.
Plant proteins drew particular support because beans, lentils and tofu can improve cardiovascular outcomes and carry a lower carbon footprint than animal proteins, especially beef, even if some need pairing to supply all essential amino acids.
Animal proteins still offer benefits—fish is backed at 2-3 servings a week for omega-3s, while eggs, chicken, pork and beef provide complete protein—but experts flagged trade-offs such as saturated fat, processed-meat risks and higher cost.
Experts cautioned that too little protein can contribute to muscle loss and anemia, while excess intake does not automatically build more muscle and may strain the kidneys; powders should supplement, not replace, whole foods.
New guidelines urge more protein, but experts disagree. Are you eating too much or not enough for your health?
With red meat facing cancer and climate warnings, what is the truly optimal protein choice for our health?
Is our national obsession with protein a distraction from the much bigger problem of ultra-processed foods?