Protein & Nutrition Blog – Marmels

Protein and the American Diet: A Quiet Nutrition Crisis

Protein & Nutrition Blog – Marmels

Protein and the American Diet: A Quiet Nutrition Crisis

by Mo Mandegar, PhD on Jun 10 2026
The new Dietary Guidelines raised the protein target to 1.2 to 1.6grams per kilogram, up to double the old minimum, yet most Americansare unsure how much protein they need and still default toultra-processed, carb-heavy foods. Here is the state of the Americandiet, how much protein the science now points to, and the smallchanges that actually close the gap.
Chart showing why the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is outdated compared to current research-based intakes

Protein & Nutrition Blog – Marmels

Is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Protein Outdated?

by Mo Mandegar, PhD on Apr 30 2026
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein (0.8 g/kg) was set as a deficiency floor, not an optimization target. Most active adults benefit from 1.2–1.6 g/kg or more. Here's what the latest research from the ISSN, NHANES, and recent peer-reviewed reviews actually says.