Is there such a thing as consuming too much protein and if so how many grams would be too much? I basically do weight watchers but recently have been tracking calories on MFP. I noticed I'm getting between 110-120 gms protein without really trying which is about 35-40% of my calories (1200). From reading online most articles say 20-25% is good for a healthy person. I was wondering if I need to be concerned about getting more than that or if most dieters get more protein. Just wanted your thoughts! I've found foods like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese etc which I enjoy eating and dont want to give them up! For exercise I only do cardio.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and Dietitians of Canada the acceptable range for protein is 10-35% of your calories for a healthy adult. That means that anywhere from 10-35% of your calories can come from protein. I would just make sure you aren't neglecting other nutrient groups like carbs and fat, but definitely keep eating what you like.
Also keep in mind that these groups are particularly conservative when it comes to protein intake based on the research currently at hand so it's likely a little beyond the range would be fine as well.
This is a good question, and subject to much debate in some circles.
The truth is, no one knows what the long term consequences of a high protein intake are.
Having said that, 110-120g of protein is not what I would consider an huge amount.
Beware of people who have read the book "The China Study" and fail to recognize that the book leaves out a lot of information to drive it's pro-vegan agenda.
As long as you are feeling fine, you are okay. I try to get an average of 100 grams a day, some days I do great, others I don't. Today I only got 60 grams But yesterday I had 98
I eat Greek yogurt everyday! YUM! My breakfast alone is usually 30 grams of protein
You should be fine. I eat 170g of protein a day and it makes up 65-75% of my calories. Then again, I don't count vegetables, so that percentage is probably slightly lower.
Thanks everyone for your replies! I feel better now. I just didn't want to be doing anything unhealthy. I'm enjoying what I'm eating and feeling full and hope this will will help me stay on plan!
I am in the same boat as you. Did a different diet, switched to MFP and calorie counting and noticing I would tend to always overeat my protein allotment and undereat my carb. I felt ok but had similar worries. I do a lot of exercise (strength training + running) though and I think it's ok to eat a lot of protein. Good for the muscles!
Keep going with what makes you feel healthy and satiated.
Thanks, I appreciate your replies! Yes my kidneys are healthy but that's exactly what I was worried about after reading about the kidneys having to work harder the more protein you have. Maybe I should start strength training to put all that extra protein to use! Have a great weekend everyone!
Too much protein?
But yesterday I had 98 
