Obesity Discussion Forums

[Alex]

I've read a lot about building muscle and its contribution to a higher basal metabolic rate. Weight training I can take care of easily, there are personal trainers at my gym who can draw up a weight routine for me, but as far as the dietary aspects - how much protein per day would a woman of my size and stature need? I'm 6'1 and currently weigh 368 lbs. Is there a such thing as too much protein in a day? Looking through my food journal for the past 7 days, on average I get about 73g per day as it is.

Also, since I'm on Weight Watchers, what are some of the better sources of protein that are also reasonably low in calories and fat and possibly high in fiber? Do supplements like powders really work or is it better to gain your protein from foods in which it naturally occurs?

[William Wallace]

Originally Posted by Alex

I've read a lot about building muscle and its contribution to a higher basal metabolic rate. Weight training I can take care of easily, there are personal trainers at my gym who can draw up a weight routine for me, but as far as the dietary aspects - how much protein per day would a woman of my size and stature need? I'm 6'1 and currently weigh 368 lbs. Is there a such thing as too much protein in a day? Looking through my food journal for the past 7 days, on average I get about 73g per day as it is.

Also, since I'm on Weight Watchers, what are some of the better sources of protein that are also reasonably low in calories and fat and possibly high in fiber? Do supplements like powders really work or is it better to gain your protein from foods in which it naturally occurs?

Excellent question, and before I answer, I just want to verify, that you are in fact weight training?

[Alex]

I will be come Monday (have to make an appointment to set up a routine).

[William Wallace]

I have always gone by the rule of thumb of a minimum 1g of protein for every pound of lean muscle, and for someone with your statistics that would be about 175lbs for you or 175g of protein.