The recommended daily protein intake for most women is around 0.8 grams per kilogram (kg) of body weight, or about 0.36 grams per pound. This amount meets the basic nutritional requirements for sedentary women. However, protein needs vary depending on age, activity level, and specific health conditions:
- For sedentary women, about 46-56 grams per day is typical.
- Active women and athletes may need 1.2 to 2.2 grams per kg of body weight daily (0.6 to 1.0 grams per pound), which can be roughly 70 to over 100 grams per day depending on weight and activity.
- Older women, especially those in perimenopause or menopause, often require higher protein intake (up to about 1.4-2.2 g/kg/day) to maintain muscle and bone health.
- Pregnant women have increased protein needs, often around 1.5 g/kg/day.
- Aiming to distribute protein evenly across meals (about 25-30 grams per meal) is beneficial for muscle maintenance and satiety.
In summary, a typical woman should aim for around 46 grams of protein daily as a minimum, with increased intake advised for active, older, pregnant, or weight management purposes.