Question:
How much of our digested protein from food is absorbed?

Ok, I'm confused.. I thought I was doing so well getting my 65-70 grams of protein in a day most coming from food.. Now, I'm told that our bodies don't absorb but 1/2 of the protein from the digested food.. There is no way I can eat 120 grams worth and loose weight. (I select the highest protein content in fish, turkey, chicken, eggs, and cheese, just to get the 65 grams) a normal day for me is three meals; each containing 3 1/2 oz of a high protein food (from above list) with lots of water in between meals.. Some surgeons recommend protein supplements; some don't; but as I can see it, if we don't get all our absorbed protein in digested food, then we have to have some sort of protein supplement that amounts to no less than 60 grams a day... Sure Protein bars have 20-32 grams of protein but most carry 300 or better calories so I stay away from them totally. I tried liquid protein (challenge) added to my water.. however that gave me heartburn, so now I'm going to try Vitalady's Protein... Anyone want to enlighten me on what they have been told, I have heard 10-20 different versions..Let's here it from the house doctors. ;-)    — Victoria B. (posted on February 12, 2000)

February 13, 2000
Hi Vickie, My surgen told me also that 1/2 of what i took in would not be absorbed so not only would I eat less but 1/2 of what I eat wouldn't even be absorbed so now that you mensioned it I was told to get in at least 45g of protein a day and I struggle to get that in, I guess I never really got 45g's now did I.....LOL Good Luck Ann
   — Ann F.