In critical illness or severe trauma, what is the typical protein range per kilogram body weight?

• A. 1.2 to 2.0 g/kg/day
• B. 0.8 to 1.0 g/kg/day
• C. 2.0 to 3.0 g/kg/day
• D. 0.5 to 1.0 g/kg/day

Answer: (A)

In critical illness or severe trauma, the body becomes highly catabolic, increasing protein breakdown and nitrogen losses. To counteract this and support immune function, tissue repair, and maintenance of lean body mass, protein intake is increased to help preserve nitrogen balance. The typical target is about 1.2 to 2.0 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. This range provides enough amino acids to meet the heightened needs without overwhelming the body's capacity to utilize them. Lower ranges like 0.8–1.0 g/kg/day reflect maintenance for healthy individuals and are insufficient in stressed patients. Very high intakes such as 2.0–3.0 g/kg/day are reserved for extreme catabolic states (for example, severe burns) and are not the standard for most critically ill or traumatized patients.