Final answer:
The average intake of protein in the United States is generally higher than the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), which is the guideline for optimal nutritional intake to meet the needs of most of the population.
Step-by-step explanation:
The average intake of protein in the United States is commonly discussed in terms of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), which is a guideline for nutritional intake. When considering the average protein intake of Americans, it generally tends to be higher than the recommended RDA. The RDA is designed to meet the needs of 97.5% of the population and is calculated based on the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). Protein is critical, especially during periods of rapid growth such as infancy and adolescence. While the protein RDA may vary per individual's characteristics, the general consensus is that many Americans consume more protein than what is suggested for optimal health.