According to the USDA MyPlate, what percentage of one's diet should come from high protein sources?

The USDA MyPlate guidelines emphasize a balanced approach to nutrition, suggesting that protein should comprise a substantial portion of the diet, specifically around 20-25%. This range indicates that protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting repair and growth of tissues, and facilitating various metabolic processes. The MyPlate model encourages individuals to include diverse protein sources, such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, and legumes, ensuring that a significant portion of one's energy intake comes from these high-quality protein sources.

This 20-25% target strikes a balance between providing adequate protein for physiological needs and allowing room for sufficient intake of carbohydrates and fats, which are also vital for overall health. Thus, the emphasis on this percentage reflects research on dietary protein intake's role in health and nutrition without overshadowing the importance of other nutrient groups.