Why You’re Eating More Protein and Still Feel Bloated

Laura Weisberg
May 13
2 min read

I Followed the "Eating More Protein" Rule and Still Felt Bloated Too

A few years ago, I fell into the same cycle. I was working long days, trying to stay full and focused. Every podcast, every influencer said: "More protein."

So I loaded up: protein bars in my bag, Greek yogurt with lunch, hard-boiled eggs before calls, a protein smoothie after.

It didn’t take long before I felt puffy, tired, and frustrated. Nothing was moving. And I didn’t feel better—I felt more obsessed.

Why More Protein Isn't Always the Answer

Protein is essential—but if you’re constantly bloated, tired, or craving snacks soon after eating, more might not be better. Here’s what could be going on:

Many packaged high-protein foods are processed with sugar alcohols and fillers that can mess with digestion.
They're often low in fiber, which supports digestion, hormone balance, and satiety.
Too much protein without carbs or fat can throw off blood sugar, leading to dips that trigger cravings, fatigue, or mood swings.

What Your Body Might Really Be Missing

When things feel off, it’s not always about what you need to cut.

Sometimes, it’s about what’s been left out:

Fiber – from fruits, veggies, whole grains, or beans—essential for digestion, hormones, and fullness
Healthy fats– like avocado, olive oil, or nuts that help keep your blood sugar steady and your meals satisfying
Real Satisfaction– meals that taste good and keep you full, instead of leaving you searching for snacks an hour later

Your body thrives on balance, not extremes—and when you give it what it needs, things start to click.

Real Food > Protein Math

You don’t need a calculator to eat well—you need meals that leave you energized, satisfied, and craving less, not more.

Here’s what actually works for me and my clients:

Hard-boiled eggs + fruit + cashews
Hummus + veggie sticks + whole grain toast
Full Fat Greek yogurt + sliced pear + cinnamon
Siete Tortilla chips + guac + roasted carrots
Chia pudding + banana + almond butter

It's not about hitting a number. It's about how you feel after.

Signs You Might Need to Rethink the Protein Hype

You feel bloated, even when you’re “eating healthy”
You crave sweets or snacks right after high-protein meals
You’re skipping carbs because you’ve been told they’re the enemy
You feel full, but not satisfied

That’s your body’s way of saying: something’s out of balance.

This Isn’t a Rebellion. It’s a Recalibration.

You’re not failing. You’re figuring it out.

Real food works when diets don’t.

Balance works when protein bars don't.

Let your food feel like food again.

If this blog hit home, grab my free 3-day meal plan. No tracking. Just balanced, real-life meals that help you feel steady.

Let’s stop doing what doesn’t work—and start eating in a way that does.