I consistently go over on daily protein totals-is this bad?

dovenotes
dovenotes Posts: 46 Member
edited September 2024 in Food and Nutrition
Questions- MFP keeps saying I'm going over on protein every day. I want to build muscle mass while losing weight. I work out 1 hour 5x per week including strength training, cardio, pilates. So don't I need the extra protein? Are the protein limits higher for athletic vs moderate or low intensity exercise? How do you figure your limit based on activity?

I actually crave the protein, and fiber as well. I have a big appetite, and both of these keep me from feeling hungry throughout the day, especially being on on 1280 cal diet. For instance, I usually have a protein powder/fiber powder fruit yogurt or milk smoothie right after workout. Then there's the rest of the day to go. Does anyone know about health risks with too much protein?

Replies

  • Kelly_Wilson1990
    Kelly_Wilson1990 Posts: 3,245 Member
    I upped my protein and fiber in my settings. I eat 75-100 grams of protein a day and 30-35 grams of fiber a day.
  • mandr97
    mandr97 Posts: 40
    Bump...I do the same thing! Great question!
  • MFP doesn't give you enough protein or fiber so going over is a good thing!
  • dovenotes
    dovenotes Posts: 46 Member
    HEALTH POINTS
    Ok, so I did some research and found there are several health risks with consuming too much protein. (maybe more than listed here- I am no health expert) Dehydration, calcium loss through urine, excess protein stored as fat, bone loss, osteoporosis for women, kidney stones. Some of these sound pretty serious if you ask me.
    So these and other possible risks are worth looking into exactly how much each person should individually consume. There are some calculations a person could do, but a doctors advice is of course the best. There is a lot of programing out there with fad diets and such. Studies say the average american consumes more protein than they need, and that too much actually has no benefit.
  • ghoztt
    ghoztt Posts: 69 Member
    I have a feeling that MFP's calorie and nutrient distribution are for those who just plan on dieting without working out in which case the default setting is probably fine. However, if you are exercising, particularly strength training, you are going to need the extra protein. I followed a guideline that was recommended by several other MFPers which is 40% carb, 30% Fat, 30% protein. You can find the customization under My Home>Goals>Change Goals>Custom and set it to whatever you like.
  • dovenotes
    dovenotes Posts: 46 Member
    Thank you for the tips. I've been at about 80+ g of protein per day. Good to go back and recalculate according to my activity level, but at least I know not to go overboard, as it can have adverse affects. And thanks to all here.
This discussion has been closed.