Protein Levels and Mood / Depression

[BigJames]

Hey bros,

Question about protein levels and mood. I typically consume about 250 grams of protein per day (I weigh 225-230 lbs and train 4 days a week). Early last week I ran out of protein powder which contributes about 120 grams of protein per day. I tried to increase protein from whole foods to make up for it, but my daily protein intake has probably been about 100-130 grams per day for a little over a week. I intend to get more protein, but I need to wait until payday (Friday!). Anyway, my wife and a couple of friends have told me I seem depressed and down. I do feel that way and I cannot figure out why...could the reduction in daily protein result in mood changes? Would the decrease in daily calories (about 500 calories less per day - on average) result in mood changes?

I am trying to figure out why I feel down, but I cannot. I am not on cycle and have not been on cycle for over a year. I fully recovered after my last cycle (confirmed by blood tests a few months ago) so I do not think this is test related.

[PEWN]

your dieing... sorry to tell you... jk

i know lack of calories will decrease your energy levels making you seem depressed.... but there might be something in your protein drink that your body got use to having and does not have now.... thats alot of protein from a non food source and not telling whats in it... thats what i feel could be making you feel down...

[Dangerdan]

When I carb deplete and go zero carbs, I get really bad diet-rage. It's kinda like roid-rage except that it's real.

[peace_frog]

When I carb deplete and go zero carbs, I get really bad diet-rage. It's kinda like roid-rage except that it's real.

This happens to me when on low carbs as well. I can go from nearly fine to feeling like Im seriously in a rage in no time flat.

I would try upping your carbs(slow digesting) a little and spreading them out to keep your blood sugar more stable. Protein also helps spare carbs, but I doubt thats the problem, because you are still getting a decent dose of protein(yes not the recommended amount, but I still dont think even a lower amount would cause this). Its really hard to tell you whats going on.

[peace_frog]

You could be overtraining a little as well. Try taking a couple of rest days if your ego can stand it. Cortisol buiild up will make you cranky and depressed.

[BigJames]

You could be overtraining a little as well. Try taking a couple of rest days if your ego can stand it. Cortisol buiild up will make you cranky and depressed.

I will try this and see what happens. Maybe I just need some rest...

[Merc..]

your dieing... sorry to tell you... jk

i know lack of calories will decrease your energy levels making you seem depressed.... but there might be something in your protein drink that your body got use to having and does not have now.... thats alot of protein from a non food source and not telling whats in it... thats what i feel could be making you feel down...

Very true !! Tyrosine and a bunch of other things that can be in your protein powder. Can have effects on dopamine ( as well other neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin, ) and they can work as all natural antidepressants.. Not sure if this is whats causing your problem but Pewn makes a very good point in his post..