It is known from laboratory studies that adults need just under 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. That's about 8 grams for every 20 pounds of body weight. However, during a period of strict calorie restriction, the National Academy of Science Institute, Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board recommends a minimum of 60-70 grams of protein per day.

Animal Protein sources Vs. Vegetable Protein Sources

There is a fierce debate over which type of protein is better. From the medical or personal health standpoint, there just isn't enough evidence to argue that one type of protein is better for you than another. Protein comes as a package of several nutrients that can make a big difference in your health. The bottom line is that animal and vegetable protein all by themselves have roughly equivalent effects on health. What matters is the entire package-not only the protein itself, but how it is prepared.

Tomorrow we'll look at protein and weight loss.

Gene C.