Fitness Queries
Protein Requirement

Unfortunately, there isn't any "right answer." The amount of protein a human being needs is based on so many individual and variable factors it's almost absurd to attempt an across the board "need." Many people "metabolize" more protein than others (they "burn up" amino acids by activating increases in liver enzyme production).
Fat and carbs might be "protein sparing" so individual nutrient variances affect protein need. Some people are producing greater levels of cortisol, a hormone that breaks down muscle, requiring greater amounts of protein just for lean tissue maintenance. Exercise amount, exercise selection, and desired fitness goals will greatly affect the "need" for protein.
You will continue to hear conflicting information. Protein sellers want you to believe the "need" is very high. There are some bodybuilders who carry around 295 pounds at 7% bodyfat and they ingest 2.5 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight.


