Question:
Do we absorb protein from food sources?

I have seen conflicting info on here about whether we absorb protein from food sources. There are some who say that we can only absorb from pre-digested forms like the protein shakes and others still rely on foods and milk. Is there a website where I can see some hard data on this information? I would like to know if I need to drink MORE protein shakes and not rely on the food sources to supplement my protein intake.    — Cheri M. (posted on July 2, 2002)

July 2, 2002
Right after surgery its nearly impossible to get in enough protein from food since we can eat so little. But after a few months protein can all come from food. Temporary protein low for us MOs isnt a problem since we were OVER NOURISHED pre op.<P> Now if we cant get the protein thru food I should be dead:) Out about a year I drank just part of one protein shake.. YUK!! My one year blood work came back perfect except for diabetic number being a bit high so protein definetely can come from food. Incidently I drink little milk. Pre op I was a chocolate milk fanatic and have avoided getting readdicted to milk. I snack on cheese for protein. My surgeon discourages protein drinks because they dont make us feel full.
   — bob-haller

July 2, 2002
We have this surgery to be "normal". It is not normal to live on shakes and supplements. My surgeon and many others want you to get all your protein from your food. Not a difficult thing to do after the first few weeks. It soon becomes second nature to reach for the protein first and then add something else. Some who say we need only predigested forms of protein SELL these products. Could that be why?
   — grammie5

July 2, 2002
Go to the library and get "Nutrition for Dummies" and ask the librarian about books that explain the digestive process. Read for yourself and make your own decision. You will get several different "opinions" from those you've never met and who may be "constructed differently" from you. The books will help you to learn more about your body and how it is working. Then you will be armed with concrete information that you can take to discuss with your doctor. Good luck and God Bless!
   — Kimberly L.

July 2, 2002
I had extremely high protein levels and never needed those crappy and expensive shakes. But to each his own. ;)
   — Danmark

July 7, 2002
Listen, forget the expensive shakes and bars. Eat real food and enjoy it, and save your money for a good steak or some scallops or shrimp, and don't give it to the salespeople making a buck from hawking their wares. I have about $75.00 worth od protein shakes in my pantry and never touch it. I just eat good quality proteins, no-starch veggies and salad and drink my water. My food bills went from $125/week to about $65 every 2 weeks. AND, I'm never hungry. :-) That's my 2 cents. Diane N
   — DianeN