How Much Protein 2yr.9mnths out?

HI, I just would like some advice on how much protein I should be getting in. I weighed 268 lbs. on day of surgery. Now I weigh 165 lbs. I would like to go down to 135lbs. How much protein a day should I be getting in for wieght loss, and at this stage of over 2 yrs. out? Any suggestions? Thanks Kristina

Hi Kristina! Please don't quote me on this - I'm no nutritional expert, but have been told that a person can only absorb about 25 grams of protein at one time. The rest is broken down and burned or stored as fat. I'm a little over three years post-op and still strive for at least 75 grams of protein a day. It's a constant struggle, as I cannot seem to get all the protein from food and I really dislike most protein supplements. I do find that the more protein I consume (staying within my 75 grams), the less head-hunger I deal with and the less cravings I have for carbs. Helps tremendously with the desire for snacking. To be absolutely sure for yourself, check with your doc or nutritionist. Hugs! Kristi

Kristi, Thank You for your reply, I will try to to get in at least 75 grams of protein. I have just started to consume about 50 grams with 2 protein shakes a day, and I to notice the difference in feeling less hungry during the day. I thought 50grams was to much. But I guess I will have to try to take in more, and talk to a nurtritionalist. Thanks for your help.

Hi Kristi, I am almost 2 years out and am dealing with lots of head hunger. How do you deal with it? I drink lots of water but I don't think I am getting enough protein. Can you give me an idea of what your daily menu is like. Maybe I just need some new ideas. Thanks so much for your help. Christy PS. my email is [email protected]

Hi Christy!! Head hunger is my biggest demon these days - stemming mostly from boredom. Unless I keep myself constantly busy, I am my worst enemy when it comes to giving in to the head-hunger! Upping the protein intake is a good combatant against this issue as well, so here is a "sample" menu that I typically follow most days: Early Morning (6:00 or so) 8 oz. coffee (yes, I have caffeine - I NEEEEEEEED it in the morning!) Vitamins and calcium supplement Breakfast (8:00 or so) Hard boiled egg 1/2 C. of fruit - (normally berries) 10-12 raw almonds Mid Morning Snack (11:00 or so) Protein Shake (AdvantEdge pre-made chocolate) Lunch (1:00) 4-6 oz. of meat, usually chicken or fish 1/2 C. veggie Mid Afternoon Snack (4:00) Fruit, usually 1/2 apple OR 6 oz. low-carb yogurt 6-8 almonds Dinner (7:30 or so) 4-6 oz meat or fish (or meat substitute) veggie SMALL bites of carb, i.e. potato or pasta If I haven't had enough protein by mid-afternoon, I might add a protein shake on the way home, especially if I am going to the gym that day. Gym days mean later dinner time, so the extra protein serves dual purpose - adds the daily protein and keeps me going until I can eat dinner. This might not be a good sample menu, but what works for me is to eat often (about every three hours or so) and to eat low-carb/high protein through-out the day. Keeping track of what I eat via FitDay.com helps me watch my totals. Of course, some days are better than others, but then again, when aren't they?!?!?!?! Hope this helps you, or anyone else out there struggling with this same issue. If anyone else would like to share their average daily menu, I'm always up for new ideas! Hugs! Kristi