What is the daily protein requirement for adults?

The average adult male requires about 56 grams of protein per day, and the average adult female requires about 46 grams of protein per day. Pregnant or breastfeeding women will require significantly more protein in their diet, an average of about 72 grams per day.

Age, height, weight, gender, and activity level all affect the amount of protein required to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. An athlete, for example, will require higher than average protein intake each day, while someone living a more sedentary life may require less. Most sources agree that whatever your caloric intake each day, protein should comprise 10 to 35% of your daily calories.