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Our Eighth Drop: Protein power đŸ’ȘđŸ»

Surprising benefits and how much to eat daily

Elevate your nutrition with science-backed tips crafted by expert dietitians, all in a nutshell.

Membrana da Casca do Ovo

ASK US ANYTHING: How much protein should I eat?

Getting enough protein isn’t just about building muscle; it helps keep weight in check, boosts immunity, supports cell health, and revs up your metabolism. But figuring out the right amount can feel tricky—and like many things in nutrition, it’s all about personalization.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for adults. However, this typically isn’t enough if you’re active and otherwise healthy. Depending on your fitness and nutrition goals, adults can likely eat between 1.2-2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

Here’s how to calculate your needs —

Not a numbers person? Meeting your protein needs doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow our practical tips to ensure you’re getting the right amount.

⏰ Eat protein throughout the day: Don’t wait until dinner to load your plate. Spreading out your intake allows your muscles to make the most of it, keeps blood sugar steady, and improves satiety. For a 100-gram protein goal, aim for 30 grams per meal and a 10-gram snack. (See what that looks like, below.)

✅ Choose high-quality sources: Include a variety of poultry, fish, beef, eggs, and dairy. These foods not only provide protein but also have essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. If able, opt for organic poultry and grass-fed beef and dairy. Not a meat eater? Legumes, tofu, seeds, and nuts have protein too.

⚠ Faux meat has a lower environmental impact, but many products are highly processed. Choose items with simple ingredients or opt for whole-food plant proteins like lentils, chickpeas, edamame, and hemp seeds. If you’re looking for a freezer option, we love: NoBull, Actual Veggies, and Meati.

💊 Supplement wisely: Protein supplements like grass-fed collagen peptides, whey, or plant-based powders can be a convenient option for those with increased protein needs. Just be wary of what’s in your supplements, avoiding added sugars and other artificial ingredients often found in shakes and bars.

đŸŒș If you are searching for a better-for-you protein bar, check out Aloha. Their organic bars have 14 grams of protein thanks to various seeds and nuts. Use code INANUTSHELL for 20% off.

đŸ§˜đŸ»â€â™€ïž Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels with different amounts of protein—notice shifts in energy, hunger, fullness, and how you’re performing in daily life or workouts. Tuning into these signals can help you make smarter food choices over time.

Quick read: If you eat protein at most of your meals, you’re likely getting an adequate amount. However, if you’re working on fitness goals, have certain medical conditions, or tend to lean more toward carbs, you may benefit from upping your intake. Calculate a rough estimate and aim to spread it out with whole foods throughout the day.

Final tip: You don’t need to mega dose to meet your needs. Did you know that 1 medium stalk of broccoli, 1 cup of cooked Brussels sprouts, œ cup of oats, and 1 slice of Ezekiel bread all have about 5 grams of protein per serving? Bottom line— you might be getting more than you realize.

INSIDER TIP:

Marissa (Meshulam) Karp, MS, RD

Registered dietitian and founder of MPM Nutrition, Marissa and her team specialize in food preoccupation, disordered eating, GI issues, chronic fatigue, weight management, heart disease, diabetes, and overall wellness.

❝

When you eat a meal with protein, your body increases hormones such as GLP-1 & CCK, which signal fullness. Protein also decreases our hunger hormone, ghrelin, therefore shifting us into a satisfied state. Some of my favorite no-cook protein sources to keep on hand are canned tuna/salmon, rotisserie chicken, and Greek yogurt. ”

Follow @mpmnutrition for more tips like these!

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

We’re showcasing convenient, protein-packed products with clean, bio-available ingredients—perfect for fueling those in-a-pinch moments.

Snack: Seapoint Farms Dry Roasted Edamame
Edamame offers plant-based protein in a ready-to-eat snack. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a smart choice for those needing a savory crunch between meals.

1/3 cup = 14 grams of protein

Perfect for keeping in your car, desk, or backpack, these shelf-stable mini tuna bowls are rich in protein and fiber aka the winning combo for staying full all afternoon. Enjoy as is or throw on top of a bagged salad.

1 pack = 21 grams of protein

Yogurt: Stonyfield Organic Grassfed Plain Greek Yogurt
Ideal as a standalone snack or an ingredient in smoothies, muffins, or parfaits, Stonyfield’s grass-fed yogurt is high in protein and probiotics, supporting digestion and immune health with a creamy, nutrient-dense profile.

Ÿ cup = 16 grams of protein

This protein powder is sourced from grass-fed cows and has a rich chocolate taste. Plus, it's easy to digest, satisfies cravings, and promotes satiety. Mix with 8-10 ounces of liquid, add some greens, optional fruit, and a spoonful of nut butter for a balanced breakfast or snack. P.S. — there’s a plant-based option too.

1 scoop = 24 grams of protein

Looking for other protein-rich snack ideas? Check out OUR SECOND DROP: SNACKS 🐿 

SERVE IT UP

Meeting your daily protein goals is easy thanks to our balanced approach featuring fuss-free meals and snacks. (*Amount may differ based on individual serving needs.)

LET’S CONNECT

As we set out on this journey to create a community that loves nutrition as much as we do, your feedback is essential. Have a brand, topic, service, or business you want featured? Have thoughts on collaborating? Or just want to say hey đŸ‘‹đŸ»? We want to hear all about it.

Recommendations can vary based on individual circumstances. If you are on specific medications or have chronic health conditions always consult your healthcare provider before making lifestyle changes.