Key Takeaways
- Most guidelines recommend consuming 60–80 grams of protein daily after bariatric surgery, although individual needs vary.
- Bariatric protein shakes are a convenient way to ensure you meet your protein requirements.
- Understanding the different types of protein powders and what to look for in a bariatric protein powder can help you choose a protein powder that meets your needs.
Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing solution if you need to lose weight and have tried other options.
Protein is one food group you need to get plenty of each day. Your body needs protein to heal from the surgery and to prevent muscle loss while you lose weight.
Some people find that cooking protein for each meal can feel overwhelming. That’s where protein powders can really be helpful.
Read on to learn why it’s so important to eat enough protein, how much you need daily, when you can start incorporating protein powders into your diet, and some recommended protein powders.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Protein for Bariatric Patients
Protein is one of the basic building blocks of nutrition your body needs to heal. After bariatric surgery, it needs plenty of protein to repair itself and support the immune system to prevent complications such as infections.
It’s also very common to lose muscle rather than fat after bariatric surgery, during the rapid weight loss phase. However, it’s important to maintain your muscle as it plays a large role in your metabolism and overall strength.
Consuming enough protein helps prevent muscle loss and instead supports fat loss.
Eating protein can also help you feel full for longer, which may help cut down on mindless snacking and extra calories.
How Much Protein Do You Need After Bariatric Surgery?
After bariatric surgery, most experts recommend consuming between 60–80 grams of protein per day.
However, individual protein needs can vary based on the type of surgery, your current weight, and gender. Males sometimes have higher protein needs than females.
Be sure to follow your surgeon’s individualized guidelines.
Over time, your bariatric team will have you gradually increase your protein intake to between 90–120 grams per day.
It’s important for you to pay attention to your body. If you notice signs of protein deficiency, such as feeling tired, increased hair loss, or muscle weakness, be sure to inform your healthcare team. They can help adjust the protein to an amount that’s best for you.
How Long After Bariatric Surgery are Protein Shakes Added to my Diet?
Right after your surgery, your surgeon will have you on a clear liquid diet. How long you stay on a clear liquid diet depends on the type of surgery you have, but this phase typically ranges from one to four weeks.
While in the clear liquid phase, you can introduce clear protein drinks into your diet. These beverages provide you with an easy-to-digest form of protein when solid foods aren’t an option.
As you transition into the full-liquid phase, protein shakes will become even more of a daily staple until you move into the soft, then solid food phases.
However, it’s important to note that everyone’s journey can be a bit different. Always listen to your surgeon’s personalized guidelines.
Understanding Protein Sources: A Brief Overview
When you look into protein powders, you’ll notice several protein sources available.
Complete proteins contain all nine essential amino acids and are typically sourced from animal products such as:
- Milk
- Whey
- Egg
- Casein (a dairy protein)
Incomplete proteins lack one or more of the essential amino acids. However, you can create a complete amino acid protein profile by combining plant protein sources. Plant proteins typically include:
- Soy
- Rice
- Hemp
- Pea
While animal proteins are typically easier for your body to absorb and use, they tend to be higher in fat content.
Plant-based proteins offer a lower fat option but can require careful planning to ensure you get all the essential amino acids.
Whey protein is highly recommended after bariatric surgery because your body can absorb it quickly. However, soy and pea proteins are good alternatives if you prefer plant-based options.
Recommended Protein Shakes for Easy Consumption
When choosing a protein shake, look for quality options that meet your dietary needs. Make sure each serving contains 20–30 grams of protein per serving.
Check the other ingredients and make sure they are low in sugar, artificial flavors, sweeteners, and dyes.
Of course, it’s also helpful to enjoy the flavor. You’ll be drinking it every day for a few weeks, so make sure you like it!
BariLife Instant Protein Drink Bottles are a great protein option after bariatric surgery.
These convenient and delicious drinks come in pre-portioned recyclable bottles you can shake and enjoy.
They each contain 15 grams of protein with 100 calories or less, 2 grams or fewer of fat, and 7 grams or fewer of carbohydrates per serving, making them one of the best protein shakes for bariatric patients
With eight flavors to choose from, such as Cappuccino, Aloha Mango, and Pineapple Orange, your taste buds won’t get bored.
The Barilife Protein Smoothie Packets also offer a delicious and convenient way to get your daily protein. Blend the smoothie packet with water or (when your surgeon gives you the thumbs up) into your favorite fruit smoothie for a creamy and satisfying snack.
With only 100 calories, the Barilife Smoothie Packets offer 15 grams of high-quality protein per serving. Made with real fruits, you can choose from Aloha Mango, Berry Delicious, and Strawberry Banana.
Tips for Preparing the Perfect Protein Shake
Creating the perfect protein shake is easy with just a few tips.
- Use a blender or handheld drink mixer to blend your protein powders with liquids like water, almond milk, or low-fat milk to get that smooth, lump-free consistency.
- For added flavor, and when your surgeon says it’s ok, blend in natural ingredients like frozen berries, spinach, or a teaspoon of nut butter.
- If you like a thicker consistency, blend in some ice cubes for a more satiating snack.
Conclusion
Protein is vital for recovery and maintaining muscle mass after bariatric surgery. Protein powders, like those from BariLife, provide an easy way to meet daily protein needs, especially in the early stages when solid food isn’t an option. BariLife Instant Protein Drink Bottles and Protein Smoothie Packets offer convenient, low-calorie options with 15 grams of protein per serving, making them ideal for bariatric patients. Choosing the right protein supplements ensures you stay on track with your health goals post-surgery while enjoying a variety of flavors.
If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below:
- How much protein after bariatric surgery?
- Best protein bars for bariatric patients
- What happens if you don’t get enough protein after bariatric surgery?
- Why do bariatric patients need so much protein?
Resources
Lim, J. J., et al. (2022). Does a Higher Protein Diet Promote Satiety and Weight Loss Independent of Carbohydrate Content? An 8-Week Low-Energy Diet (LED) Intervention. Nutrients.
Toninello, P., et al. (2021). Nutritional Support for Bariatric Surgery Patients: The Skin beyond the Fat. Nutrients.
What are your tips and tricks to post-bariatric success?