Question:
DOES ANYONE HAVE A PROBLEM WITH BOWEL MOVEMENTS FROM PROTEIN?

I HAVE ONE PROTEIN BAR AND ONE PROTEIN DRINK A DAY. SOMETIMES 2 BARS. 30 GRAMS EACH. DRINK IF I HAVE THAT IS 24. I PROBLEMS WITH BOWEL MOVEMENTS. I TAKE 2 CORRECTOLS A DAY WITH 4 STOOL SOFTNERS. IT TAKES ABOUT 5-6 DAYS TO GO? WILL PROTEIN STOP YOU UP? THANKS GRACIE    — gwhisman6 (posted on April 26, 2001)

April 26, 2001
I'm not aware of protein causing constipation. I would make sure you're getting enough water. Maybe this is normal for you now too, I mean think about how much you're eating compared to preop, of course you're waste will be much less as well. The only other thing I could suggest, besides calling your doc, would be to try n get a little fiber in the diet, ceral or fresh fruits. good luck....
   — [Anonymous]

April 26, 2001
Hi there, I have tried to get all my protein from "natural" sources, I eat Vector cereal...high fibre and protein and I eat a salad for lunch and supper with a boiled egg (every other day) and fat free ham, chicken, turkey etc and low fat cheese. I also eat a fair amount of popcorn and that seems to keep the system moving...every morning like clock work...I consulted a pharmacist about the protein bars and drinks and they say that for once in a while it is good but there is alot of sugar in them and to be careful...natural is best...I agree with the previous post about veggies and fibre, ya gotta have it, i also drink 4 litres of water a day...hope it helps and good luck!!
   — nascar007

April 26, 2001
Are you taking iron? That could be your problem. Are you drinking 8 glasses of water a day? Coffee cleans me right out, try that. Are you eating any fruits and veggies? Are you drinking prune juice? or other veggie juices? Hope this helps.
   — Cindy H.

April 26, 2001
You didn't say what kind of protein you're taking, but often they have just the opposite effect at first and the glycerol in the bars can work like a laxative, too. You might look at the things Barb mentioned, like water intake (think 64 oz MINIMUM) and avoiding too many fats & oils. We're malabsoring them to varying degrees. I have to introduce them into my diet or else, major problems. I commend you for working so diligently to get your protein in! I am assuming you are not adding sugar to them, but using very low sugar, high protein products?
   — vitalady