Protein Intake Calculator

Dr. Mark Wickman headshot Dr. Mark Wickman

Enter your current body weight without clothing or gear. You can use pounds or kilograms.

Choose the factor that reflects your typical training load or recovery demands.

Enter your weight, select an activity factor, and set the number of meals to view daily and per-meal protein suggestions.

How the protein math works

Most evidence-based guidelines express protein needs as grams per kilogram of body weight. The calculator converts weight to kilograms when necessary and multiplies by your chosen activity factor. In MathML form the relationship is P = m × f , where m is body mass in kilograms and f is the activity multiplier. Dividing by the number of protein feedings distributes the daily total evenly across meals to encourage consistent muscle protein synthesis.

If you enter weight in pounds, the tool internally multiplies by 0.453592 to reach kilograms. The final output includes both metric and imperial quantities to simplify grocery planning and nutrition tracking apps.

Protein scenarios at a glance

Compare how daily needs shift with body size and training emphasis.

Example daily protein targets by activity
Profile Weight Activity factor Daily protein Per meal (4 feedings)
Desk worker easing into exercise 150 lb 1.0 g/kg 68 g 17 g
Endurance athlete in training camp 70 kg 1.6 g/kg 112 g 28 g
Strength athlete during a bulk 200 lb 2.0 g/kg 182 g 45 g

Hitting these numbers does not require rigid meal plans. Spread protein-rich foods—such as poultry, legumes, tofu, Greek yogurt, or whey shakes—across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Pair each feeding with carbohydrates and vegetables for balanced nutrition.

Fine-tune your nutrition strategy

Protein targets should adapt to training cycles, energy goals, and recovery feedback. Increase the factor temporarily during intense lifting blocks, or reduce it slightly on deload weeks while keeping meal distribution even. Monitor sleep quality, hunger, and gym performance to confirm the plan fits your lifestyle.

Continue dialing in your macros with the Macro Nutrient Calculator, balance hydration using the Daily Water Intake Calculator, and translate training stress into calories via the Running Calorie Burn Calculator or other activity-specific tools.

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