Do I Need Protein Shakes After Bariatric Surgery?

Getting enough protein after surgery is absolutely necessary and protein shakes are almost always needed.

Here's an overview of what you need to know about protein supplements.

Protein supplements come in several forms:

• Ready-To-Drink Protein shakes. These usually come in 8 oz containers and don't have to be refrigerated, although they usually taste better cold.
• Protein Powders.
• Protein Bars.
• Liquid Protein. These products usually resemble cough syrup and may not be complete proteins. They can help you reach your protein goals but are not intended to meet all of your protein needs. These are usually not a first-choice. 

Dietary instruction will vary, but most patients need protein supplements AT LEAST starting 2 weeks before surgery and up to 6 weeks after surgery.

Many patients start drinking protein shakes well before this and use shakes longer than 6 weeks post op. 
Be sure to follow your heath care provider's instruction because excess protein supplements may add excess calories or get in the way of eating other foods you need.

Choosing A Protein Supplement

A Serving is One Scoop of protein powder or 8 oz of protein shake.
Each serving should be:

• 15-30 grams of protein
• 200 calories or less
• 5 grams of sugar or less
• 10 grams of fat or less

Ingredients

It is important to consume complete protein isolates: Whey, Soy, Egg, Milk, Casein. 

List of Recommended Protein Powders

• Bariatric Advantage
• Celebrate
• Unjury
• Optimum Nutrition
• IsoPure Whey Protein Powder Isolate
• Soy Protein Isolate
• Whey Protein Isolate
• Jay Robb Whey Protein Isolate

List of Ready-To-Drink Protein Shakes

• Premier Protein
• Bariatric Advantage
• Celebrate
• ProSource
• Muscle Milk Light 
• EAS AdvantED GE Carb Control
• EAS Myoplex Light 
• Syntrax Nectar Protein
• Isopure Zero Carb
  
• SlimFast Low Carb
  
• Sugar Free Carnation Instant Breakfast ​