Sponsored By: Protein PACT

This Sponsored Satellite Program was originally presented at NUTRITION 2026, ASN's flagship meeting which was held July 25-28 in National Harbor, MD.

Dietary protein guidance has traditionally centered on the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 0.8 g/kg/day to prevent deficiency. However, long standing evidence-based observations suggest that protein intakes above the minimum may better support muscle health, metabolic function, satiety, and healthy aging. At the same time, national intake data reveal important gaps in total protein consumption, distribution across meals, and access to protein-rich foods.

This session will examine the scientific foundation of protein recommendations within the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs), including how the RDA is established and how protein quality and essential amino acid composition influence physiological outcomes. Speakers will distinguish between adequacy and optimal intake and explore how current intake patterns align, or fail to align, with DGA recommendations.

Moving from evidence to application, the session will illustrate what common protein targets look like in everyday eating patterns and discuss practical strategies to support consistent, nutrient-dense protein intake across the lifespan. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the evolving science underpinning protein guidance and actionable insights for translating recommendations for including into real-world dietary patterns.