Adults: The average daily protein requirement of an Indian adult, in terms of a high quality protein like milk/egg at the physiological level is estimated to be 0.5 g/kg body weight. The RDA for adult is given in table.
Group
Body weight (kg)
Requirement (g)
Per kg. body Wt
per day
Men
60
1.0
60
Women
70
1.0
50
Pregnancy and lactation:Protein requirement during pregnancy and lactation have also been assessed by the factorial method. The safe intake during the later half of pregnancy recommended by the Committee is 15g/day. During lactation, an additional daily intake of 25g during the first six months and 18g during 6-12 months of lactation.
Protein allowances during pregnancy and lactation are shown in table.
Group
Daily additional requirement (g.)
Total daily requirement(g)
Pregnant women
15
65
Lactating women
0-6 months
25
75
6-12 months
18
68
Infant
0-6 months ------ 2.05/ kg body weight/day
6-12 months ------ 1.65/kg body weight/day
Children: The recommended daily allowances of protein for children are given in table.
Participants