How important is protein for women and how much do we need? First, things first. Protein is essential to not only build muscle but to develop and maintain healthy bones, skin and hair. It also makes hormones and enzymes. It is one of the three macronutrients (carbohydrates and fat are the other two) that your body needs to build and repair tissue. Registered dietitian and senior clinical nutrition specialist, Lora Edwards states that “it is vital for our immunity and even makes up the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your blood.”
As for how much we need, there is no set number that applies to everyone. The recommended daily amount for protein intake is roughly 0.36 grams per body weight. If you’re 120 pounds, then your protein intake would be 43 grams.
There are specific calculations depending on your goals:
1) For the average woman, your calculation would be your weight x 0.36 grams of protein.
2) For weight loss, the calculation would be your weight x 0.7 grams of protein.
3) For muscle gain, the calculation would be your weight x 0.8 grams of protein.
The best way to ensure that you’re getting your protein in is to get it from whole food sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, nuts and grains. If you’re not able to get it from those sources then you might have to substitute with powders, bars, etc.
Keep in mind that whatever your fitness goal, it is important to consume fewer carbs and/or fat because of the additional calories coming from protein. To make tracking easier, try using an app. There are several different ones to choose from. See what works best for you.
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