Question:
Can protein shakes hinder loss?

I was curious. I have been taking in about 50 grams of protein a day in protein shakes for the last two-three weeks. Ever since then I haven't lost a pound. Anyone know what could be going on. I had surgery July 1 and am down about 62# in four and a half months. I started at 5'2" and 265#. I lost monthly: -27, -10, -15, -10, and nothing this month. I'm about ready to give up the shakes.    — lindadougherty (posted on November 10, 2003)

November 10, 2003
How many extra calories are you getting in these shakes? Do any of them contain sugar/milk? It's really more of a calories game. Now... my weight loss slowed down at the 4 month mark, so it could be coincidence at this point. Good luck!
   — Happy I.

November 10, 2003
A few things to consider. First, not all protein shakes are created equal-- you really need to find one that has less than 2 grams of carb for every 10-5 grams of protein (this is my minimum standard when reading the labels); the protein shakes that are high in sugars fail this basic test. Secondly, the most effective weight loss is achieved by getting your body into ketosis (where it burns its own fat); the way to achieve ketosis is to maximize protein intake while minimizing carbohydrates. Consequently, the number of calories you take in (assuming that you are getting beyond the basic "starvation mode" level) is simply not relevant if you keeping your carbs to a fairly low number (around 20-40 depending upon the person) and getting in at least 60-80 grams of protein. You might want to consider taking a few days and trying the Atkins type of induction diet where you cut your carbs back to no more than 10-15 a day and boost your protein to over 80 grams; in a few days, you should be able to break any plateau you are on and then return to consuming a more manageable amount of carbs. Good luck.
   — SteveColarossi

November 10, 2003
I find they speed up loss.
   — mrsmyranow

November 10, 2003
Do you get any cardio exercise? I started with similar stats (5'3 235) and the only way I lose is if I continue exercising. Barb
   — Barbara C.

November 10, 2003
I've been drinking 1-2 carb solutions a day and it has helped with my weight loss. -105 pounds in 9 months tomorrow! 10 pounds to goal.... I get the 42 grams protein and it's a liquid...a win win situation. Good Luck!
   — Hazel S.

November 10, 2003
What kind of shakes are you using. Not all are the same. Some are for weight training and muscle building. You should get one that has very low carbs. Not over 5 and 0 sugar or very low sugars . I find that my loss slows down when I DON'T drink mine. Could be your are just on the dreaded plateau. If that is the case, just hang in there.
   — Delores S.

November 10, 2003
Define protein drinks? Whey powder made with water should speed up your loss. Ensure or Boost could stop it cold or reverse it. Mixing an innocent whey powder with milk and/or banana (classic wt gain recipe) could stop you, too. Some days I take in over 200g protein in shakes. Still weigh under 110. Oh, and I eat food, too.
   — vitalady

November 10, 2003
Original poster here, I drink the GNC whey protein shakes. 2 grams of carbs and 20 grams of protein per serving. I do mix it with 2/3 cup of skim milk. But it's the only milk i drink a day.
   — lindadougherty

November 10, 2003
Try 1.5 sc to bring it up to 30g (but not more--waste of $$). And water. Maybe do 50/50 water/moo for awhile and wean down? By the way, you are almost to the lb where I was at your stage. And your rate mirrors mine. And I STILL lost 150# in about 14 months. It just came off in fits and starts. I didn't have a steady weekly loss, but showed some loss at my monthly visits to the doc. I was 5'1", 262. Can't get much closer, can we?
   — vitalady

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