Why does MFP set protein so low?

xLyric

Assuming this is right:

Ideally, you should consume 0.36 grams of protein for every pound of body weight, according to recommended daily allowances (RDA) set by the Food and Nutrition Board.

Then my daily protein goals should be around 75... Why then does MFP set it to 47? This week I'm eating 73, so I was worried it was too much, it's 26 over the limit MFP gave me, but if that quote above is correct I am actually getting a good amount.

ivyjbres

To answer that question, first we have to know who, what, when, and in what context your quote comes from. To build muscle, you need a certain amount of protein/amino acids. To maintain, you don't need nearly so much. To maintain muscle, 3 oz of meat a day provides more than enough amino acids for repair and maintenence, and then carbs are fuel. Building muscle is a different story. I would guess MFP sets protein at the low end to err on the side of caution. Rarely, too much protein can be bad for you, it strains the liver and kidneys.

MFPs preset goals are a good place to start, and depending on your personal needs and experience, you can adapt them as needed.

SugarDiva

I have no idea about the protein but ivyjbres.. the picture in your ticker is great! :laugh:

ItsJustVicki

Is there a way to change the settings? I was just trying to figure that out

ivyjbres

Is there a way to change the settings? I was just trying to figure that out

Yes there is. Go to the "Food" tab, then settings, then goals, click on the green "change goals," button. Then select Custom, and then you can play around with it.

ItsJustVicki

Thanks so much for your help-it was driving me crazy lol

Lyadeia

I had to change mine as well. I lose the most weight in the fastest amount of time with my protein set at 30% and my fat down to 15%. I still get the essential fats I need, but I also get the added protein to support muscle growth which aids in fat loss.

Besides, I am a meat eater and couldn't stand eating so little protein. :flowerforyou:

mcjabber

I have no idea about the protein but ivyjbres.. the picture in your ticker is great! :laugh:

agreed! that's hilarious :happy:

i agree, the goals that mfp automatically sets seem a little weird to me. pretty much daily i go over my protein and under on my fat. and what also totally weirds me out is the fiber--mfp has me aiming for 16 grams but every fitness magazine i read (and there are several) say that 20-30 is a good goal. i ALWAYS go over on fiber. i hadn't paid that much attention, but now i'm sort of inspired to go fool around with the settings.