Protein is one of the three macronutrients your body relies on every day, used to repair tissue, support your immune system and keep you feeling full. This guide walks through how much protein most adults actually need, which food sources make it easy to hit that target, and a few common mistakes — like assuming more is always better — that are worth avoiding. Whether you get your protein from lean meats, dairy, legumes or a combination, consistency across the day tends to matter more than any single meal.

