Health Tool

Protein Calculator

Find out how much protein you need every day to stay fit and healthy.

cm
kg

Current plan

Activity

Moderate Exercise

Goal

Maintain Weight

Factor

1.60g/kg

Result Panel

Ready to calculate

Fill the form on the left and hit Calculate. Your daily protein range and calories from protein will appear here.

Helpful Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common questions about this calculator and how to use the result.

How does the protein calculator work?Open

Our calculator uses your age, gender, height, weight, activity level, and fitness goal to estimate your optimal daily protein intake. It applies scientifically-backed body weight multipliers to give you a recommended range — along with the calories that protein contributes to your diet.

How much protein do I need per day?Open

A common range is 0.8 to 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight, depending on your activity level and goal. Sedentary adults typically need 0.8g/kg, moderate exercisers need 1.4–1.6g/kg, and those building muscle may need up to 2.0–2.2g/kg. Use the calculator above for your personalized estimate.

Is 100g of protein a day enough to build muscle?Open

It depends on your body weight. A person weighing 70–80 kg doing regular strength training typically needs 112–160g of protein per day for muscle growth. 100g may suffice for lighter individuals or those in a maintenance phase, but heavier or more active people will likely need more.

Why does weight loss increase protein needs?Open

During a calorie deficit, higher protein intake helps preserve lean muscle mass and supports satiety, reducing the chances of overeating. It also has a higher thermic effect than carbs or fats, meaning your body burns more calories digesting it.

What happens if I eat too much or too little protein?Open

Too little protein can lead to muscle loss, slower recovery, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. Consistently eating far too much — especially without adequate hydration — may stress the kidneys over time. Staying within your recommended range, as shown by this calculator, is the safest approach.

Which foods are highest in protein?Open

Top high-protein foods include chicken breast (~31g per 100g), eggs (~13g per 100g), paneer or cottage cheese (~18g per 100g), lentils (~9g per 100g cooked), Greek yogurt (~10g per 100g), tuna or salmon (~25–30g per 100g), and whey protein powder (~25g per scoop).

Is this calculator accurate for vegetarians and vegans?Open

Yes — the calculator gives you an accurate protein target regardless of your diet. However, since many plant-based proteins are incomplete (missing some essential amino acids), vegetarians and vegans may benefit from increasing their target by 10–15% and combining sources like rice with lentils, or chickpeas with quinoa.

Should protein intake change as I age?Open

Yes. After age 40, the body becomes less efficient at utilizing dietary protein — a phenomenon known as anabolic resistance. Adults over 50 are generally advised to consume 1.2–1.6g/kg of protein per day, higher than younger adults, to help preserve muscle mass and prevent age-related muscle loss.