Question:
How do I figure my protein requirements as my weight changes?
I had been given a formula of {.38 x weight (in pounds)= grams of protein/day} but several people have said that they think that's way too much. Does anyone know what the standard is? I'd like to be sure that I'm getting the right amount. — Linda F. (posted on August 31, 2001)
August 31, 2001
I know some people calculate it based on your weight and height. Our
nutritionist said having an exact amount isn't that important and that as a
rule of thumb, try to get in 60 grams a day and if you are a relatively
short female approaching your goal weight, that can be dropped down to 40.
Men's recommended protein intake is higher. I know that isn't very
specific, but she said it didn't need to be exact, just close. She also
advised against some people trying to get in 100 grams a day, as too much
protein is hard on the kidneys. Many good nutrition books at Barnes &
Noble or other bookstores will have information on how to calculate protein
requirements based on height and weight, if you want to do that. Good luck.
— Lisa D.
August 31, 2001
Wow, that sounds low to me, esp during the rapid wt loss stage. We lose
muscle at an astounding rate. I cannot imagine trying to stay healthy on
less than 60g a day, female, more if male. That's what we need to NET
after malabsorption, after you factor in the bioavailability of the protein
type you are ingesting, and the amount you actually take in. I still do
120-180g a day in supplement. The supps are not as hard on the organs as
food protein, because they are predigested, but you can't be slacking on
your water, either way. I do not recommend that high protein intake for
anyone else unless you are as aware of the difference as I am. 120g is the
minimum for my distal RNY, but I prefer the way I feel and the way my labs
look on the extra. It takes more intake for me to NET that basic 60g than
it would for a proximal RNY. But it is not an area in which I wish to
economize, as the price is way too high over the long term.
— vitalady
September 1, 2001
This is a really good question. I would ask my surgeon. While well meaning,
you could ask 10 post-ops on this site and get 10 different answers. We
have had different doctors, different procedures (RNY, DS, DS/BPD, Fobi,
VBG, etc.) and within those procedures variations due to our needs or the
particular surgeon's technique. I had lap RNY and my doctor told me to get
about 60 grams protein/day. I'm 9 weeks out,63 lbs. lost and I feel great.
This is what works for me. I know that what the nutritionist told me and
what the surgeon told me did not quite agree. I'll take the surgeon's
advice as he is an expert in bariatric surgery. In general, I have found
lots of conflicting info on the web for the reason mentioned above and I
always have to consider the source. LOL :-)
— Jonathan M.
September 1, 2001
wow...all you guys seem like your taking alot less protein then what i
should be taking....i'm at 62" and that almost a distal, but i follow
te medial protein requirments...i should be taking 120 to 130 grams of
protein a day...but you know i think you should just follow what your doc
says..like someone else said, that's you best source
— maria R.
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