When I check online it tells me how much protein to consume, but I’m referring to measures of protein levels in the blood. I see that the reference range is 6.0-8.5 mg/dL. Does an active person need to be on the higher end of that?
While im not sure of what exact protein level you are thinking of (its not nitrogen balance), its important to consider that your body is in a constant state of flux between catabolic and anabolic processes that will always alter the protein level in your blood depending on bodily needs. Serum protein levels are not a good indication of optimal hypertrophy.What are you looking for with that number?
The US DRI for protein is 0.8 g per kg body weight (or 10% of kcal as part of the AMDR). There are also DRIs for specific amino acids. You can enter your diet into cronometer.com (free) to see if you meet all the DRIs. Athletes and older people may benefit from higher levels of protein, but there’s no benefit going above 1.6 g/kg. I would not rely on blood tests as an indicator of adequacy.