Protein is vital to many aspects of health. In addition to its structural, mechanical and transport roles in the body, protein helps maintains fluid balance and pH levels, and is required to form hormones, enzymes and antibodies. It’s easy to get carried away with the notion of “a little is good, a lot is better” when it comes to protein intake. But the truth is that excess calories, regardless if they come from fat, carbohydrates or protein, will be stored as fat tissue and can contribute to weight gain.

Recommended Protein Intake

For most adults, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for daily protein intake is approximately 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. The requirement differs depending on an individual’s life stage, health status and even physical stress. Athletes who train on a regular basis benefit from levels of protein 1.2 to 1.7 grams/kilogram of body weight based on muscle cell turnover and repair.

Applying the standard 0.8 grams of protein daily requirement, the average 154-pound male would need about 56 grams/day and a 125-pound female would require about 46 grams/day. According to a national health survey, men consume an average of 101.9 grams/day, while women are taking in an average of 70.1 grams/day (Fulgoni, 2008). Based on these statistics, the average American consumes much more protein than they actually need. Therefore, it’s likely that most individuals, even elite athletes, can easily meet their requirements by simply consuming a healthful diet- without necessitating the use of protein supplementation.

Protein Variety

Aside from common animal-based proteins such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese and eggs, several plant-based proteins offer low-fat alternatives:

Plant Protein Examples

Plant-based proteins can be easily incorporated into meals. For example, quinoa and buckwheat can be served in place of traditional sides such as potatoes or rice; they also can serve as a protein-packed breakfast cereal. Beans and lentils are great protein additions to toss in soups and salads. Other plant-based proteins such as tempeh, seitan and tofu can be cooked as you would meat (broiled, baked, grilled or sautéed) and enjoyed a number of ways.

Quick Seitan Stir-Fry

Seitan is a wheat-based product that’s a great source of lean protein. You can find it at your local health food store.

Serves: 1

Ingredients: 

• 2 tsp. sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 2 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce
• 4 oz. seitan
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup canned water chesnuts, drained and sliced

Directions

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet, add garlic and green onion. Sauté about 1-2 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients stirring occasionally for the next 8-10 minutes.

Nutritional Information: 295 Calories, 29 g Protein, 11 g Fat, 20 g Carbohydrates

It’s clear that protein supports a multitude of vital functions in the body and is needed in various amounts depending on your stage of life and health circumstances. However, it’s important to keep in perspective that your health status can be affected by a variety other factors, including lack of exercise, smoking, too little sleep, etc. Pursuing an overall healthy lifestyle that includes a balance of these factors may go much further in your pursuit of better health.

References

Fulgoni, V. (2008). Current protein intake in America: Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003-2004. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 87, 5, 1554S-1557S.