How do you calculate protein needs based on body weight?

To calculate protein needs based on body weight, using the metric system is generally more reliable and accurate. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is approximately 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight.

To find the protein requirement using body weight in kilograms, you need to multiply the weight by 0.8. This calculation provides a personalized estimate of daily protein intake based on individual body weight, which is important for maintaining muscle mass, supporting metabolic functions, and overall health.

Using pounds instead of kilograms can introduce unnecessary complexity because it would require an additional conversion step (dividing by 2.2 to convert pounds to kilograms) before applying the protein ratio. Thus, directly using kilograms simplifies the calculation process and aligns with standard nutritional guidelines.