Units-Calc
Home / Health & Fitness / Protein intake calculator

Protein Intake Calculator

Estimate your ideal daily protein target based on body weight, goal, activity level, training style and meal frequency. See a target range, protein per meal, calories from protein and practical food examples.

PRO

Calculator

Protein targets are mainly weight-based.

kg
35 kg180 kg

Different goals usually need different protein ranges.

Used to split protein across the day.

meals

Grams per kg of body weight.

g/kg

Used to show protein as % of calories.

kcal

Plant-based diets may benefit from a slightly higher target due to digestibility and amino acid profile.

Food example planner

Estimate how much of common foods would match your target.

Food amount for daily target
Breakfast target
Lunch target
Dinner target
Snack target

Goal comparison table

Goalg/kgDaily protein

Personalised guidance

How the calculation works

Protein needs are estimated by multiplying body weight by a protein target in grams per kilogram. The calculator adjusts the target based on your goal, activity level and diet pattern.

Daily protein target = body weight (kg) × protein target (g/kg)

General health targets are usually lower, while fat loss, muscle gain, older-adult muscle preservation and high training loads often benefit from higher protein intake. The result is then split across meals to make the daily target easier to plan.

Note: This calculator is for general nutrition planning only. If you have kidney disease, liver disease, an eating disorder, pregnancy-related needs or a medically restricted diet, get personal advice from a qualified clinician or registered dietitian.

Practical protein tips

  • Spread protein across the day. Most people find it easier to hit their target with 3–5 protein feedings.
  • Build each meal around a protein source. Meat, fish, eggs, dairy, tofu, tempeh, beans, lentils and protein powders can all contribute.
  • Prioritise protein during fat loss. Higher protein can help with fullness and muscle retention when calories are lower.
  • Plant-based diets may need planning. Mix legumes, grains, soy foods, nuts and seeds to improve amino acid coverage.
  • Do not ignore total calories. Protein helps, but weight change still depends heavily on overall calorie balance.

Common questions

How much protein do I need per day?
It depends on your goal, body weight and activity. General health may be around 0.8–1.2 g/kg, while fat loss, strength training and muscle gain often sit around 1.6–2.2 g/kg.
Is more protein always better?
Not necessarily. Once your protein needs are met, extra protein may simply replace carbs or fats that support training, hormones, energy and food enjoyment.
Should I use total body weight or lean body mass?
Total body weight is simple and works well for most people. If someone has a much higher body-fat level, a target based on goal weight or lean body mass may be more practical.
Can I get enough protein on a vegan diet?
Yes, but it usually needs more planning. Soy foods, lentils, beans, chickpeas, seitan, nuts, seeds and plant protein powders can all help.

Related tools