Protein

Are you eating enough?

Proteins are the building blocks of life, breaking down into amino acids that help the body grow and repair. Our hair, skin and muscles are all made from the protein we eat. Our bodies use amino acids to make new proteins, such as bone, muscle and other compounds including enzymes and hormones. Protein can also be used as an energy source although a balanced diet with good sources of fats and carbohydrates are usually preferred as energy sources, allowing protein to repair and maintain muscle mass.

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for an average sedentary adult.

As we age we need to increase our daily intake of protein, from the age of 50 we need to increase to 1 gram per kilo of body weight to maintain muscle mass, even if sedentary.

For physically active adults the International Society of Sports Nutrition recommends a protein intake of 1.4 - 2.0 grams per kg of body weight per day.