Protein: How much is too much

ForeverIrish
ForeverIrish Posts: 227 Member
in Food and Nutrition
I have a tendency to eat more protein than is allowed for the day. A trainer told me this was fine. I've heard some amounts are too much--how much more than what is recommended is okay?

Replies

  • babyblake11
    babyblake11 Posts: 1,107 Member
    If you dont feel sick or uncomfortable with the amount you just ate, you are usually fine. As long as you are enjoying it and not forcing yourself your body usually wants/need it.
  • taylor5877
    taylor5877 Posts: 1,792 Member
    /reading thread while finishing an 18 oz. sirloin...
  • IronPlayground
    IronPlayground Posts: 1,594 Member
    1 gram/ lb of LBM is a good rule.
  • Jynus
    Jynus Posts: 519 Member
    there is a difference between adequate, optimal, and too much.

    the government RDA's are based upon nitrogen balance. when you start to piss nitrogen, you're at that point starting to 'waste' protein. that level differs for everyone, and differs based upon intensity of exercise you do. the RDA's for this are in the area of .2g to .8g per lbs of body mass.

    In terms of whats optimal, thats not quite as concrete. For those looking to get the best results, there is evidence that eating more might have benefit. Thats why 1g/lbs is used as a general rule. It's a great catch to get in that potentially optimal range, is not too much where you're wasting a lot of protein, and is easy to remember.

    In terms of too much, I really don't know if such a limit has been established. I've seen studies as high as 3g/lbs that have shown to be perfectly safe. That said, if you have a pre existing kidney condition, you will need doc advice. Thats the one exception to protein. it won't cause kidney problems, but it will make existing ones worse.
  • JennyNotSoSkinny
    JennyNotSoSkinny Posts: 93 Member
    My trainer told me 40 grams on easier workout days and 60 grams on killer days. I don't keep track as well, but take the advice of the poster above who said let your body tell you.
  • smokinjackd
    smokinjackd Posts: 341
    I try to follow the MFP reccomendations, but there are times when my body tells me it requires more, I feel weak and drained and crave bacon, so I up my protein and I take care of the issue, same thing with carbs other than the bacon craving.

Categories