Eating too much Protein?

Amazongirl
Amazongirl Posts: 16
in Food and Nutrition
Every day when I finish my food journal I am WAY over on my protein and WAY under on my carbs. This is not intentional - but I am wondering if this is a problem?

Replies

  • sciencenerd2011
    sciencenerd2011 Posts: 37
    I don't think it's a problem. I often eat more than the recommended amount of protein. I think as long as your protein is coming from leaner cuts of meat, I wouldn't worry about it. That's my opinion. I do know that (article in International Journal Obesity and Related Metabolism Disorder) that weight gain is 50% slower when the protein intake is higher than what MFP suggests.
  • Amazongirl
    Amazongirl Posts: 16
    Interesting! I didn't know that. All of the protein is either from chicken, fish, or dairy (greek yogurt, low fat cheeses). Maybe I'll experiment and see what happens by boosting up my carb intake and lowering my protein a bit. Thanks!
  • monty_williams
    monty_williams Posts: 76
    If it's any comfort, protein has the highest TEF (20+%) of all the macros (except alcohol) and the least likely to end up converted to body fat. Roughly 20% of it's equivalent calories are expended during the digestion and deamination of protein. Protein is 4 calories per gram, but the energy potential for your body is only around 3.2 calories. If you're going to go over on a macro, protein is it, especially if you are doing weight/resistance training.
  • ironanimal
    ironanimal Posts: 5,922 Member
    Your protein is still set to 15% or whatever it is in your goals, as per MFP standard. A lot of people up this to 30 or 40% and then see improved results. It's absolutely fine.
  • Amazongirl
    Amazongirl Posts: 16
    AHHHH! That's it! I didn't think that I could be so much over....I'm going to change my settings now. I also do LOADS of weight lifting at least 3xs per week...so, protein and I should be on a first name basis at this point! Thanks for all of the input!
  • EricaTeach
    EricaTeach Posts: 3
    Ok, I'm still confused. I have the same situation, too much protein and not enough carbs. What do I need to change? Eat more carbs and less protein? I do strength training for 30min 3-4x's/week.
  • wftiger
    wftiger Posts: 1,283 Member
    No such thing as too much protein unless you have kidney issues. Stick to lean protein as that will keep you fat intake in check. Protein is more satisfying then carbs. Your body digests it slower so you feel full longer.

    If you find you are tired you might want a few more carbs but make sure they are good whole grain and not Wonder bread.

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