Question:
Can you have too much protein?

I had bypass surgery on 3/30/07. I eat over a 100 grams of protein a day. Anything from solid white tuna, string cheese, fish, meat, protein shakes, yogurt, eggs, etc. Is there a limit of the amount of protein we should eat a day that would put us in a danger zone? Or, is it the more the better?    — Caliqueen (posted on October 24, 2007)

October 24, 2007
Congrads on your surgery. The dietician I see through my surgeons program said the only concern for the extra protien I was eating was the caloric intake.We are required to eat around 64 gm a day. If you have a dietician that you can see, ask them what they think.
   — Paula K.

October 24, 2007
I do 180g in supplements, who knows in food? But your regular labs should tell you if there is any shift in kidney health. Whatis right for ME might not be right for YOU, and our needs would be different based on surgery type and activity level, for example. Themain point being to get those regular labs, FOR LIFE, at least every 6 months. As long as you're charting the protein, albumin, pre-albumin and kidney functions, you will have something to show your doc if anything changes. Of course, you'd chart your iron and vites levels, too. Goes without saying.
   — vitalady

October 24, 2007
as a matter of fact there is a problem when you get too much protein. What you are actually doing is the Adkins diet. This can be very dangerous for your Kidney health. Talk to your doctor. I am amazed you haven't gotten gout. There is never a need to go over 80 grams of protein per day.r
   — bderuiter

October 24, 2007
I was told to try for 80-100grams a day. I was also told that if you are exercising you need at least that much. If your labs are ok, and you are losing or maintaining, I do not think 100 is too much. I think not getting enough is more of a problem. It sounds like you are getting it from healthy sources. Good Luck!
   — robinmarra

October 25, 2007
Hi Rhonda, If I remember right when I was taking the leadership classes with Obesity Help, they said to try for 100 grams for Protein per day. If you work out allot, it is recommended to eat more protein. The best bet is to ask your surgeon or dietition. Good LucK- Judy
   — jk_harris