What is the acceptable amount of protein in urine?

Acceptable amounts of protein in a random urine sample range from 0 to 20 mg/dL, states MedlinePlus. In 24-hour urine collections, normal values are less than 80 mg per 24 hours.

While cold or heat exposure, emotional stress, fever and strenuous exercise may cause a temporary rise in protein levels, states Mayo Clinic, abnormally large amounts of protein in the urine are often attributed to kidney problems, notes MedlinePlus. This is because, as the kidneys become diseased or damaged, they are less able to leave proteins behind, which may then begin to filter through and appear in the urine, explains Cleveland Clinic.