CSSD Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Study Resource

The minimum protein intake recommended during weight loss for individuals is often set at 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. This level of protein intake is important because it helps preserve lean muscle mass while promoting fat loss. When individuals are in a caloric deficit, they risk losing not only fat but also muscle tissue, which can have negative implications for metabolism, strength, and overall health.

Consuming adequate protein supports muscle synthesis and recovery, particularly when engaging in physical activity. Thus, a recommended intake of 1.5 g/kg strikes a balance between ensuring sufficient protein to maintain muscle and promoting fat loss effectively.

In the context of weight loss diets, going below this level may not provide the necessary support for muscle maintenance and overall metabolic health, which is why lower protein intake recommendations (like 0.8 g/kg or 1.2 g/kg) are generally not sufficient for those actively losing weight. Higher intake levels, such as 2.0 g/kg, may be beneficial in specific scenarios like bodybuilding or severe caloric restriction but are often not deemed necessary for the general population focused on weight loss.