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Protein needs are relatively high during growth and development periods, such as infancy or during pregnancy. But for adults with a healthy body weight, the current recommended dietary allowance (RDA) equates to 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day (g/kg/d). For example, the RDA for protein for a male or female weighing 70 kilograms (154 lbs; 1 kg = 2.2 lbs) would be 56 grams, approximately the amount of protein in an 8-ounce steak or a 4-egg omelet with ham and cheese.

The Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) for protein is 10% to 35% of total kcal. In the United States, recent nutrition surveys report an average protein intake close to 16% of total calories, with men consuming about 100 grams and women consuming close to 70 grams. These protein intake levels are within the AMDR, but well above the RDA for most people. The overconsumption of protein by teen boys and adult men in particular has prompted the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to recommend that they specifically reduce consumption of protein foods by decreasing intake of meats, poultry and eggs.