One of the most common questions I get is.......How much protein do I need to consume each day?

How many times have you heard the statement, "you can get all the protein you need from a normal diet?"

I would ask this question in response........"need for what?"

There's quite a difference between the need to sustain life and the need to achieve a muscular body. To sustain life you need about 36 grams of protein per 100 lb. of body weight.

Recent research has shown five times this amount may be required to obtain maximum increases in strength and lean mass.

So, now that you know how much protein you need, let me explain why. Did you know that protein can actually influence your body's ability to build muscle, burn fat, or gain weight? Increasing your protein intake almost always results in greater muscularity if you are doing resistance exercises. An increase in muscle mass results in a higher metabolism and thus more calorie/fat burning. Protein in large amounts, 1.5 to 2grams per pound of body weight is what is recommended.

Do not skimp on your protein!

Until next time, train hard and eat smart!