I've been working with a lot of people recently, helping them move toward their health goals—whether it’s weight loss, better energy, muscle tone, or healing. One of the biggest game-changers we focus on is getting enough protein. It might seem simple, but increasing protein intake consistently makes a huge difference in how people feel, function, and recover. Here’s why it matters, how much you need, and easy ways to get it into your day. Protein is essential for: - Building and repairing muscles, tissues, enzymes, and hormones - Supporting immune function - Maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails - Promoting satiety and weight balance - Helping children grow and develop properly Unlike carbs or fat, your body doesn’t store protein, so you need a steady supply each day. 📏 How Much Protein Do You Need? Group Minimum per Day (RDA)Optimal Range (for active/longevity goals) Adult Women 46g 80–100g Adult Men 56g 100–130g Children (4–13)19–34g0.8–1.2g per kg body weight Teen Boys 52g75–110g Teen Girls 46g65–90g For weight loss, strength training, or healing, protein needs may be higher—up to 1.2–2.0g per kg of body weight. 🧾 Protein-Rich Foods & Their Approximate Protein Content 🐓 Animal-Based (Complete Proteins): - Chicken breast (3 oz): 26g - Turkey breast (3 oz): 25g - Eggs (1 large): 6g - Greek yogurt (6 oz): 17g - Cottage cheese (½ cup): 14g - Tuna (3 oz): 22g - Ground beef (90% lean, 3 oz): 22g - Salmon (3 oz): 21g - Whole milk (1 cup): 8g 🌱 Plant-Based: - Lentils (1 cup cooked): 18g - Chickpeas (1 cup cooked): 15g - Quinoa (1 cup cooked): 8g - Edamame (1 cup): 17g - Black beans (1 cup): 15g - Green peas (1 cup): 9g 🥜 Nuts, Seeds, and Extras: - Peanut butter (2 tbsp): 8g - Almonds (¼ cup): 7g - Chia seeds (2 tbsp): 5g - Hemp seeds (3 tbsp): 10g - Protein powder (1 scoop): 15–30g 🥗 Tips for Increasing Protein - Start your day with eggs - Add a scoop of clean protein powder to smoothies or oatmeal - Snack on nuts, hard-boiled eggs, or jerky - Choose legumes and whole grains together for a full amino acid profile - Make protein the focus of every meal, not just a side