Pumping up the protein content of your meals comes with many perks. Getting enough protein may boost your bone health, improve your energy, and help the body repair cells and body tissues, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Most Americans get plenty of protein and have no trouble reaching the recommended 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. (For example, that’s about 55 grams of protein for a 40-year-old woman who weighs 150 pounds, is 5’5” tall, and is somewhat active. Find out your recommended protein intake using the USDA nutrient calculator.
Aldrich, N.D., et al. (2013). Perceived importance of dietary protein to prevent weight gain: a national survey among midlife women. Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior.
Ellis, E.. (2023). What to look for in yogurt. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
FoodData Central. (2012). Yogurt, Greek, nonfat, plain, Chobani. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central. (2017). Cheese, cottage, lowfat, 2% milkfat. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central. (2022). Peanut butter, creamy. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central. (2021). Pulse, roasted chickpeas. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central. (2017). Whole Foods Market, carrot and celery sticks. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central. (2021). Wilcox, organic hard-boiled eggs. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central. (2021). Woven wheats, baked whole wheat crackers. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). How much protein do you need every day?
Hayes, D., et al. (2021). Eat right to play hard. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Rosenbloom, C. (2023). Teen nutrition for fall sports. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Shield, J.E. (2021). When should my kids snack? Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Protein.
Discover a simple way to manage diabetes
Patients can use GoodRx to save up to 40% on OneTouch Ultra Strips.