The average man requires approximately 56 grams of protein a day which accounts for between 10% and 35% of his caloric intake. According to researchers, most Americans eat well over the required protein and push themselves into a dangerous area of consumption.

In fact, many American men believe they aren’t receiving enough protein per day even though majority consume 20% more than needed on a daily basis by incorporating protein in every meal. One of the greatest misconceptions is the amount of protein actually embedded in different meats, beans, and yogurts. Something as innocent as a container of yogurt contains approximately 11 grams of protein, which is about 20% of the necessary doctor recommended intake.

Excess Protein in Your Diet is Dangerous

Consuming too much protein will lead to weight gain in a non-active individual and eventually will reduce liver and brain function. Each gram of protein has approximately four calories, which can really add up if you consume 100 or more grams of protein a day – many men do this on a daily basis, particularly athletes and bodybuilders. As long as you continue to burn, your weight will continue to stabilize, but make sure you are drinking plenty of water.

The storage of excess protein and calories from protein also puts stress on the liver, kidneys, and brain, causing high cholesterol levels in the process. Honestly, protein should be the best supporting actor of your meal, not your leading role. When you consume protein, your body produces ammonia which is a toxin not harmful in low quantities but can cause the liver to overwork if too excessive. Eventually, ammonia and other toxic substances will build up in your bloodstream (if not properly filtered through your liver and kidneys) causing brain and nervous system damage.

Are You Active or Are You a Coach Potato?

Athletes, bodybuilders, and other extremely active people require more protein in order to gain strength in muscles, and more importantly, to recover from harsh workouts. The standard 56 grams of protein will not be enough to sustain an extremely active male (exercises 5-7 times a week). Most of these individuals already eat over the recommended amount so the need for protein supplements are not required or recommended.

Consulting with a nutritionist or doctor may be the best route for someone who is interested in the exact protein intake needed for their specific activity level and lifestyle.

But as a ballpark figure – most athletes, bodybuilders, and active individuals consume anywhere from 70 to 100 grams of protein per day.

Mixed Reviews

Many doctors around the world claim different results in regards to the caloric intake of protein synthesis. Some say that more calories from protein actually help people lose weight, while others claim visa versa. Personally, I believe that you need to listen to your body. If you are feeling sluggish and lethargic after a meal, causing you to miss out on a work out and future exercise that day you may be over-consuming.

On the contrary, if you are active and find yourself unable to recover in a timely fashion – always tired and mentally unfocused – you may need more protein than the recommended 56 grams.

If you are an active man looking to lose fat and gain muscle, protein intake is important – the more protein the better as long as you are working out with some conviction. Adversely speaking, if you’re a couch potato you may want to stick to the salads.

About the author : This article was written by David Holly. David leads a pretty active lifestyle, priding himself on a balance between healthy eating and exercise. After taking several nutrition courses in his undergrad, he decided that he wanted to pursue a career as a personal trainer. Pairing his health knowledge and writing skills together, David is also a professional content creator for Rejuve Health Clinics, Orlando’s premier testosterone therapy center. To view more of his work, feel free to visit his Google+.
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