A2. Protein — the Most Common Gap

The PROT-AGE expert group recommends an average of at least 1.0–1.2 g of protein per kg body weight per day for healthy people over 65, together with regular exercise suited to the individual. [3] ICMR-NIN's 2024 guidelines advise against protein powders and concentrates for muscle-building, so this kitchen meets the need with food: moong, paneer, milk, curd, besan, amaranth and millets. [4]

Figure A2. Protein per serving of every recipe in this volume, by section

Practical protein rules Every meal contains a protein dish: breakfast (moong, besan, paneer, milk), lunch (dal + curd), dinner (yusha, khichdi, paneer). Volume I's model day reached ≈ 45 g in May–July; add Section 13's fortified milk or a paneer dish in those months. Frail or recovering guests: Level 5 paneer–moong mash (≈ 12 g per serving) and protein-enriched milk. Guests with kidney disease follow their doctor's protein prescription — never fortify without advice.