Daily Protein Needs Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the daily protein needs calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Formulas Used

Daily Protein

daily_protein_g = weight_lbs * activity_factor

Calories from Protein

calories_from_protein = weight_lbs * activity_factor * 4

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
weight_lbsBody Weight(lbs)170
activity_factorActivity Level0.8

How It Works

How Daily Protein Needs Are Calculated

Protein requirements depend on your body weight and how physically active you are.

Formula

Daily Protein (g) = Body Weight (lbs) x Activity Factor

| Activity Level | Factor | |---|---| | Sedentary | 0.6 g per lb | | Moderate | 0.8 g per lb | | Active / muscle gain | 1.0 g per lb | | Intense training | 1.2 g per lb |

Each gram of protein provides 4 calories.

Worked Example

A moderately active person weighing 170 lbs.

weight_lbs = 170activity_factor = 0.8
  1. 01Daily protein = 170 x 0.8 = 136 g
  2. 02Calories from protein = 136 x 4 = 544 kcal

Ready to run the numbers?

Open Daily Protein Needs Calculator