getting in protein?

I'm going through a few of those days that I can't get much down so I'm not getting in many calories. I don't want my body to go into "starvation" mode. Even though I'm not hungry, should I try to get in my protein through protein shakes-- because I can't get it in with solids? When I get a fill, the nurse practicioner says I shouldn't be drinking protein shakes for lunch and/ or dinner-- but should get in solid protein. Is it better to get the 60 grams in with liquid than not at all? Thanks--Ann

I agree, protein shakes are better than no protein at all. I feel the same way about my vitamins, some have to be taken a certain amount of time before eating, but if I don't just take them when I happen to remember, then I end up not taking them at all. I think as long as you are making an effort to get in solids, and not just having the shakes as a substitute, then you are making progress.

I am still heavily relying on protein shakes to get my protein in. And I feel like I will be doing that for a long time. I did have some tri tip steak last weekend and it was the first steak I had had since surgery, but I was only able to handle about 3 maybe 4 ounces and it went down okay. I just had to chew the heck out of it, but thank god, it was so much better than chicken and fish, which I am completely sick of.

I definitely agree that it is important to get your protein in however possible. I would try not to make a habit of doing it with protein shakes, but if you need them to make up your 60 grams, go for it. I often find that I am not hungry , but force myself to eat my three meals a day. I have soup alot, with melted low fat cheese in it. It usually accounts for 30 grams of protein, if you can eat the whole can (I can usually get in about 2/3 of it). Good luck, and try to keep your protein intake up as best as possible. Keep us informed. Hugs, Lisa

I agree with everyone else. Liquid form of protein is better than none at all. Try making chicken on the weekends and then using it during the week. 4 oz is 24 grams of protein so even if you take a few bites here and there throughout the day it helps. Or make chicken salad. I am starting to rely more on food for protein and not the liquid form. But I still do drink the occasional Isopure to make sure I get it in. I did go through a spurt where I wasn't counting protein or calories and found I was at a plateau for awhile. My hair was even starting to fall out more. Nothing alarming but I noticed it a lot more in my brush and things. So now I'm back on track.