Protein Intake Calculator

Find out exactly how much protein you need each day based on your weight, activity, and goal.

Your Profile

%

Results

Minimum Daily Protein
safe lower bound
Recommended Daily
optimal for your goal
Maximum Beneficial
diminishing returns above
Per Meal (3 meals)
Per Meal (4 meals)
Per Meal (6 meals)
Common protein sources to hit your target

RDA (Minimum): The US RDA is 0.8g/kg body weight — sufficient for sedentary individuals to prevent deficiency. This is NOT optimal for people who exercise.

Active individuals: Research supports 1.6–2.2g/kg (0.7–1g/lb) for optimal muscle protein synthesis. Higher intakes (up to 2.4–3.1g/kg) during a calorie deficit help preserve lean mass.

Lean body mass basis: When body fat % is provided, recommendation is based on lean mass — more accurate because fat tissue has minimal protein needs.

Meal timing: 20–40g of protein per meal maximizes muscle protein synthesis. There's no significant benefit to spreading tiny amounts; each meal should have a meaningful protein dose.

Plant-based: Plant proteins generally have lower leucine content and bioavailability (~80% of animal protein). Vegans benefit from 10–25% higher total intake targets.

⚠️ These are science-based general guidelines. High protein intakes are safe for healthy individuals with normal kidney function. Consult a doctor if you have pre-existing kidney conditions.