Carb + Protein = Sustained Energy???

[rostkowb]

Hi Everyone,

Can anyone confirm if carbs mixed with protein will sustain energy as opposed to carbs by itself? I was led to believe this for many years and have felt it (placebo) during all my Dlife. Thanx.

[Mich]

For many of us, the imprtance of always including protein with our carbs is the more even assimilation of the food as blood sugar. It makes the "spike" less severe.

For me, it sustains my satisfaction and keeps me from getting hungry sooner. That could be construed as sustained energy I suppose.

If I do happen to eat a carby snack, I follow it up with protein, then with raw veggies the next two times I eat. I don't do big meals.

Mich

[Bethanne]

I agree with the hunger factor, too. Breakfast with eggs is always better than just toast. I believe it's Fat that can lower the sugar spike--as well. It slows the absorption of the simple sugars in your blood stream... or something like that! LOL

[betsyz]

Agreed. It's also something to consider for treating low blood sugars. My RNP has always recommended following up my initial LBG treatment of juice or other high sugar carb with a little bit of protein (e.g. a slice of cheese, yogurt, some nuts). And I find that when I follow her advice it helps me get my numbers back to a better and more stable place, and I can avoid another low episode later in the day.

[shiftzor]

If you eat too much protein it will raise your bg hours later. Protein is good for muscle recovery and the carbs will give your body energy. I assume the question is sport related. Combining them post exercise to avoid lows and aid muscle recovery is really recommend. However I am not sure on the benefits of taking protein during sport.


Interesting article (http://www.gssiweb.org/Article_Detail.aspx?articleID=719)

[rostkowb]

It does seem right....the carb/protein combo does last longer then carbs themselves. But my muscles are surely sore for the next few days during a good work/workout day. I'll make more effort on focusing with straight carbs when performing a true physical/cardio workout. On other activities, I will stay with the combo. Example - 6 hour grass cut (4 acres) because it uses my muscles more than a full cardio workout. Of course, I will monitor and adjust to the activity. Thanx for the help!

[xMenace]

Well I'm playing hockey tonight, and I've had all of ... 60g of carbs today. I may up it to 75 with a post-game "pop". Not likely. I'll be paying attention to said energy levels.