Federal Guidelines Raise Daily Protein Target to 1.2-1.6g/kg, Up 50%-100%

2 articles · Updated · Hackensack Meridian Health · May 27

New federal dietary guidelines now advise adults to consume 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, lifting targets by roughly 50% to 100%.
For a 150-pound adult, that works out to about 81 to 109 grams a day, versus roughly 54 grams under the older RDA formula of 0.36 grams per pound.
Dietitian Jennifer Glavasich said actual needs still vary by activity, age and health status, with frequent exercisers and many adults over 65 often needing more, while people with kidney impairment may need less.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has not adopted the higher range and still generally recommends 46 grams daily for women and 56 grams for men.
Glavasich said whole foods such as beans, lentils, eggs, nuts, tofu and lean meats should remain primary protein sources, with bars or shakes used mainly as occasional backups.

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