Q I’m a new runner and I’m very cautious about my diet. Is there a maximum amount of protein my body can absorb? I eat most of my daily protein (two cans of tuna) at dinner.
A Your body has no problem absorbing virtually all the protein you eat in a meal, whether it’s 50g or 550g. My concern is that you seem to be eating all of your protein at one time. Remember, it’s best for your body to absorb protein throughout the day, not just at one meal.
I would suggest eating some protein at other meals as well, for example yoghurt at breakfast or tofu at lunch. It’s also important to eat protein from a variety of sources so that your body gets an array of nutrients. Eating only tuna, even though it’s a great source of protein, is too limiting. Other foods, such as low-fat dairy products, eggs, lean meats, and beans, provide the additional nutrients that your body needs. Try including some of these foods in your daily diet.
—Liz Applegate, RW USA Nutrition Editor
