Question:
Nectar Protein Shake Cravings....

I'm 20 months post op, all reconstructive surgeries done and I'm maintaining a 120 lb weight loss. I discovered Syntrax Nectar protein shakes a couple months ago (Strawberry Kiwi, Fuzzy Naval and Crystal Sky). LOVE THEM! But, I feel 'addicted' to them. I am using them as my protein source so I can get more vegis and fiber in. I literally crave these flavors all day and can't wait until it's time to have the next shake. I'm having between 4-5 daily. Anyone else experience this?    — Vicki S. (posted on December 12, 2004)

December 12, 2004
I love Nectar too. I'm 2 years out and down 225 pounds. I still don't eat over 4-6 ounces per meal and eat 4 meals per day. I am maintaining my weight loss and still need to have a thigh lift done. I've had arms done, breast lift and lower body lift. It is too dangerous to let your protein levels get low!. I still have a Nectar shake 4-5 times per week and that keeps my protein levels in mid range of normal.It's best to get your nutrients from the food you eat and use the shakes as insurance.Try weaning down slowly on the shakes. Too much protein can be harmful to your kidneys.Good luck. Congratulations on the weight loss!!!
   — dianne E.

December 12, 2004
Hey Vicki, I went thru the same thing with the Joe Weider tropical punch flavor protein. I mixed it with crystal lite lemonade and it was wonderful. But then, like someone flipped a switch, I stopped wanting it. Had to make myself drink it. Now it's coffee.........can't get enough of it and would rather drink coffee than eat. I found some coffee flavored protein drink mix and I use that some just to keep myself from drinking way too much of the real stuff. I know that I was getting in about 90 to 100 grams of protein per day and when I had my blood work done, it showed that I still wasn't getting enough protein. I went thru a similar thing with craving cantaloupe, then carb countdown chocolate milk, then peanut butter, then that all just stopped too. Some doctors will tell you that you should get all your protein from food sources but I can't really see why that would be the case. Seems to me your body would treat it the same when it hits the intestines so I don't worry too much about getting too much of my protein from supplements. I get pretty sick of meat and cheese and nuts sometimes and the drinks are a welcome change. I don't really have an answer for you but you might just experience the same thing I did and you'll need to find another protein source. Until then though, keep up with your blood work and if it doesn't show you're overdoing the protein, I wouldn't worry too much about it personally.
   — scbabe

December 12, 2004
I wouldn't be concerned about the shakes as much as I would be concerned about your addictive food behaviors. It's an issue that can effect you very negatively in the long run. Also- you should consider the importance of taking in SOLID protein in order to prolong your feeling of satiety. Good luck to you.
   — LMCLILLY

December 12, 2004
Many people drink that many shakes per day as a normal corse of action- be worried if you become "addicted" to chocolate :)
   — kultgirl

December 13, 2004
Hi Vicky, I don't have an answer. I have a question,,,,, Where do you get the nectar you mentioned? I am having a problem with my first meal of the day and this might help me over the slump. Thanks, Duane
   — dumpling

December 13, 2004
I would also like to know where you get the protein shakes from? Congratulations on your success.
   — JerseyGirl

December 13, 2004
Thanks for all the support here. I get my Syntrax Nectar at a local place called 'The Vitamin Shoppe'. You can also get it online at their website www.vitaminshoppe.com. It's so delicious and the fruity flavors are such a change from the vanilla & chocolate protein shakes.
   — Vicki S.