US dietary guidelines now push for double the protein—with a warning

New US dietary guidelines now recommend a significant increase in daily protein intake. Officials advise adults to consume between 1.2g and 1.6g of protein per kilogram of body weight—up to double the previous advice. The change aims to support muscle maintenance and metabolic health rather than just prevent deficiency.

The old protein recommendation of 0.8g per kilogram was set to avoid deficiency. It did not account for optimal muscle function or long-term health. Research, including a 2012 study, had already suggested higher intakes of 1.4g to 1.8g per kilogram, spread across meals.

The updated guidelines are backed by 30 studies confirming that higher protein diets are safe. However, experts warn that excess protein can turn into fat, raising the risk of abdominal obesity and diabetes. Currently, the average American man already eats around 100g of protein daily—twice the old benchmark. Officials now urge people to prioritise protein at every meal, with at least half coming from animal sources. While this could encourage more whole foods, there are concerns it may also boost sales of processed, protein-fortified products.

The guidelines mark a shift from basic deficiency prevention to promoting long-term health. Consumers may now seek out more protein-rich foods, both natural and processed. The impact on public health will depend on whether people choose whole foods or rely on packaged alternatives.