Are humans designed to be herbivores?

[Tom L.]

I knew that protein in excess of what you need was metabolized for energy like carbohydrates and fats, and not stored- at least, that was the science at one time.

I hadn't heard that you can only absorb so much protein per meal- although it doesn't surprise me if this is true. Since I started cutting back on dairy, I've made more effort to get enough calcium and vitamin B-12. Oddly, the body can store significant amounts of B-12, which is unusual for the B-complex vitamins: they are water-soluble, and amounts in large excess of what you need have generally been thought to be simply excreted.

At my Thanksgiving dinner, I brought two veggie burger patties to microwave, each of which had a listed protein content (from mushrooms, soy protein concentrate, and wheat gluten) of about one-quarter of your RDA. I'd planned to eat one the next day- but it was so good I chowed down on both of them. Now I feel badly about that! But it was only one meal and I won't do that again.


I've learned more recently that there is a limit to how much calcium one can absorb at one meal, so I take only one calcium / vitamin D tablet at a time, and separately from a meal with other calcium-rich foods such as broccoli or kale. However, I do take my calcium tablet with food and water, as the accompanying instructions advise.

 

[fakei]

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There are a lot of factors that go into protein absorption, and there is a need for more research but the latest info and general consensus is that about only 25 g of protein can be absorbed per meal.

If you search it on the Internet the current scientific belief is that there is no limit for absorbing proteins.

The 25g is a theory that has to do with the use made after being absorbed.

And it seems to be directed at athletes trying to build muscle.

Edited the post after further reading.

 

[Lou]

If you search it on the Internet the current scientific belief is that there is no limit for absorbing proteins.

The 25g is a theory that has to do with the use made after being absorbed.

And it seems to be directed at athletes trying to build muscle.

Edited the post after further reading.

I read a little about that. Utilization is what I think they call it. And I'm not sure it makes a practical difference.
and yep most of the research has to do with athletes.