According to nutritional guidelines, what percentage of total calories should come from protein?

The recommended percentage of total calories that should come from protein is typically around 10% to 35% for adults, according to various nutritional guidelines, such as those from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Choosing 30% aligns with a more moderate approach that can support muscle maintenance, recovery, and overall health for individuals who are physically active or seeking to manage their weight effectively.

This percentage allows for adequate protein intake to support various bodily functions and can help in achieving specific fitness or health-related goals, particularly in active individuals or those undergoing body composition changes. While higher protein intakes can be beneficial in certain contexts, a 30% allocation is often cited as a balanced choice that meets the needs without excessively restricting other macronutrients, such as carbohydrates and fats, which are also essential for overall health and energy.

Other options, which suggest higher protein percentages, could lead to an imbalanced diet that does not provide enough energy from carbohydrates and fats, which are vital for various physiological processes. Maintaining a balance of macronutrients is important for long-term health and sustainable eating habits.