Protein Drinks forever?

Hi Friends! Just got set up for a little Physical & Occupational Therapy today, 2 hours back to back, whew.... Question:  80-100 grams of protein a day, do we have to drink these protein drinks for the rest of our lives????  What a biotch! So far I'm doing Prefect 3 oz bottles of 25 grams of protein, and the big Ispure, slimfast low carb, cards fan is sending me a sample of new whey protein, geezo.... Prayers for all, BobM.

Bob, First, I am so glad you are doing better.  As time passes you will be able to eat more regular food and you may not require protein shakes forever. Your doc will do periodic blood tests (q3m) to check on your protein levels and tell you how you are doing with protein as well as vitamins and minerals. Also, you will find a product you like somewhat. And there is a reasonable chance that your tastes may change and you find you actually can drink the shake and enjoy it. Really! Be glad your doc says 80 to 100 grams a day - my nut says 136 grams a day (which I haven't hit yet). Joe Bear

Bob, It depends entirely on how much protein you will eventually be able to get from food and also what your requirements are.  Over the next several months as your pouch continues to heal and you establish a normal eating routine, you'll be able to get most if not all of your 80 gram requirement.  Until that time, the protein supplements need to be on the menu.  So to answer your question - protein drinks the rest of your life...eventually you may not need them and when that time comes, you'll have a choice of whether or not you want to continue with them. I also mentioned that use of the protein supplements would depend on your personal requirements.  Myself personally, I was working my a$$ off in the gym and not getting the results I wanted to see.  I had gone below goal weight and was toned and in decent shaped (for the first time in my life), but I could not gain a decent amount of muscle mass.  I was getting between 85-100 grams of protein daily.  It was not until I doubled my protein intake that I was able to gain muscle mass.  So long story short, for me and my goals, I absolutely rely on the protein supplements in addition to my food intake.  It's the only way I can meet my requirements.  So your goals will drive your need for additional supplementation. Let me know how you like the New Whey.  It's very similar to the Profect you have now but packs 42 grams pf protein per 3 ounce vial compared to the 25 in the Profect. Take care sir! Cards Fan loseSMART!  loseSTRONG!

I would think for about the first 6 months you will need them.  Whey protein isolate is easy to absorb.  That is why it is used so much.  I am over a year out and continue to use a small amount each day.  I want to make sure not only am I getting enough protein in my diet, but the bigger questions...is there absorbtion from the protein in my diet!!  I try to get a well rounded source of protein now...Daily I will usually have some whey protein, tuna, nuts, beef, milk or dairy, legumes (beans).  My thoughts are "why gamble".  I don't want to lose muscle mass.  So I would say after 6 months to 1 year you may look at reducing or elimination the protein drinks, but check your labs first and talk with your doctor.  Brian

Hi Bob,

Not sure about your cholesterol level or any other heart disease related factors, but I've switched from Protein drinks to food processed chicken breast (consistency of mashed potatoes) made into chicken salad with veggies and mayo. The chicken is probably okay, but the mayo is something you have to watch if you have cholesterol issues. I don't pay it any mind because my cholesterol/ bp are low and I exercise a lot.

Find low cholesterol mayonaise, though and you've got a good tasting non-sweet source of protein. The food processor is key though to getting enough in.

I still have 1-2 shakes a day to feed my metabolism (keep it low, that is) so my total intake is between 250-300 grams a day. But remember, I'm using protein as calories to work out, because I'm on low carb.

Hope This Helps, and Man I'm Still Glad You're Okay!

Dave