I know I am a very bad bandster for not knowing about protein, so I am really hoping you guys can clue me in a little...
I have noticed on a lot of the American lap band blogs that I read that you all focus a lot on eating protein and it seems to be a strict rule from your doctors. My doctor has never mentioned that I need to eat protein, but I am thinking I really should from what I have seen you guys saying. Aside from anything, you guys mention it can really boost weight loss and I am all about that. Does anyone know why eating more protein helps you lose weight?
I would say the foods I eat most now are eggs, seafood and legumes, which are all great for protein, but I am still not eating that much because I can only eat such small portions now. I guess I need to try a protein shake, but I am nervous because I have read how disgusting so many of them are to drink. Plus, we really don't have the range available to us over here in Australia that my North American friends have. I would love to hear from anyone that has any advice on great protein shakes or ways you add more protein into your diet.
Thanks so much for taking the time to help out, I feel completely clueless about all this!
I dont think it's that protein helps you lose weight, I think it's more that it keeps you fuller for longer.
ReplyDelete75gm of protein per day, is what I've read you need.
That was my understanding too - protein just keeps you feeling fuller for longer. V. http://the-babbling-bandit.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteYep - I heard the same thing (keeps you fuller for longer).
ReplyDeleteAlso - I notice that if I concentrate on eating protein first I don't seem to crave the sugar as much :-)
Protein helps you maintain your muscle mass which will keep your mtabolism sztronger even as you weigh less.
ReplyDeleteHey there! All of what is said above is true.. there is also a thermogenic effect that takes place where your body uses more energy to digest the food.. anywhoo.. that's getting a little complicated.. :)
ReplyDeleteThere are loads of different types of protein powders in Australia.. www.asn.com.au (I think that's the address) Australian Sports Nutrition stocks heaps of different types. Also, GNC Livewell shops have very helpful staff who would be able to answer any questions on the right type for you..
I really like natures own "natural" flavoured soy protein as it is pretty much flavourless and you can add it to savoury things as well as sweet.
Hope that's helpful!
Ash
There's no perfect amount of protein for everyone - you have to figure out what works for you. If you're finding it hard to eat meat/chicken/fish, then a protein supplement is a good idea...
ReplyDeleteYou usually have to try a few to find one you like, so it's a good idea to start with those that are available in small quantities. That way you don't waste over $100 on something you end up not using.
Try Horley's Sculpt, Ladybird Women's Whey or BSN Lean Dessert Protein - they all come in smallish tubs and are easy to find at pharmacies or supermarkets. Once you find one you like, it's usually cheaper to buy it in the largest possible size.
You can always blend them with fruit and skim milk to make yummy smoothies too. I prefer to make solid meals with my whey protein (French toast, pancakes, cookies) but if easy digestion is the aim, a liquid meal would be great.
I have really been lacking in the protein department lately and just bought the GNC Whey Protein in banana cream - very yummy when mixed with either water or skim milk.
ReplyDeleteIt just helps me get something down and an extra bit of protein in the mornings when I really can't handle solid foods too well.
AS mentioned, it helps you feel full, longer. I believe it also helps with hair, nails, etc. I don't know which brand to suggest to you, as you say you have less choices, but maybe you could look up local brands online & they might have a way for you to try it before you buy a big tub.
ReplyDeleteI was also told that at least 50% of your meal should be protein (rather than salad or veges) and you should ALWAYS eat your protein first. Then if you get full and can't eat the rest (veges or salad) you have had the right amount of protein to keep you going until the next meal.
ReplyDeleteI'm a bypasser but I was also told to make sure I don't drink anything for an hour after your meal as this 'washes' your food through your stomach and can also make you hungry sooner. I'm guessing this must be the same for banders?
When i used to do Cohen, the protein absolutely sustained me for much longer as carbs and suagrs get burnt so quickly and fizzle out (if that makes sense).
ReplyDeleteProtein also helps strengthen your muscles and the more lean muscle we have, the more effective our bodies are at burning excess fuels in our bodies. So it has quite a few little uses.
I agree with you entirely about getting more protein. Thanks for this post, I'm really looking forward to reading up a bit more about the sources each person has recommended.
Another good source for buying protein stuff is bodybuilding.com. They have fairly reasonable international shipping, and I think they use Australia Post so it's even cheaper for you.
ReplyDeleteI live in Korea and also have problems finding protein powders. I finally just bought something I saw that was made in the USA, and it's actually not that bad.
Good luck finding one that's right for you! :)
Ditto Rachel.
ReplyDeleteI've been told to have half my meal as protein, and no drinking for 30 minutes as it washes the meal away.
But Im pretty sure your surgeon says it's ok to drink with your meals?
Hi there old buddy old pal...
ReplyDeletehope all is well, I'm back on broadband so can finally catch up on all me old pals lives.
xxx
Hey there,
ReplyDeleteI've been following for about 2 years, have read every post and want to say congratulations, it must feel amazing!
My year of waiting for hospital cover is finally up but I'm worried that I'm not mentally prepared. I'm scared I'm just going to find foods that will slip through the band and not lose any weight. It's great when you blog about the food you're eating now, its very helpful. =)