Bariatric Surgery Protein Supplements For Patients | UPMC (2024)

FAQs

What is the best protein for bariatric surgery? ›

Products made with whey, casein or egg whites have a higher PDCAAS and DIAAS than pea, rice or collagen-based products. Just after bariatric surgery, it is best to choose a whey, egg or casein-based supplement to ensure you are getting all essential amino acids and adequate protein.

Preserve muscle tissue by eating foods rich in protein. High-protein foods include eggs, meats, fish, seafood, tuna, poultry, soy milk, tofu, cottage cheese, yogurt and other milk products. Your goal should be a minimum of 65 to 75 grams of protein a day.

Protein Goals After Weight-Loss Surgery

The recommended intake varies depending on your individual needs, your surgery type, and the bariatric diet prescribed by your surgeon or dietitian. However, basic guidelines include an average of 60 to 80 grams a day for women and 70 to 90 grams a day for men.

There are a few reasons why bone broth is such an excellent alternative to protein shakes for people who have undergone bariatric surgery. First, it is very easy to digest. This is important because the stomach and intestines take time to heal after surgery. Bone broth is also a great source of protein.

Genepro – the flavorless and odorless medical grade Genepro comes highly recommended for bariatric patients who need to add more protein to their diet as it contains an equivalent of 30g protein serving per tablespoon.

After that, your diet will be advanced to soft/pureed food for two to three weeks as healing takes place. Solid foods will then be added as tolerated. What are the best choices of protein? The best choices include eggs, low-fat cheese, low-fat cottage cheese, tofu, fish, other seafood, chicken, and turkey.

With gastric surgeries, rapid weight loss can occur and result in both fat and muscle losses. If the body does not get enough protein from the diet over time, the body will break down muscle tissues and fibers in order to get its supply of amino acids.

These amounts seem like a lot, but several foods are rich in protein. A daily protein requirement of 60 grams can be met by having two eggs, a glass of milk, a 3-ounce portion of baked fish, and a cup of cottage cheese. Even athletes with a greater protein requirement can get it from food.

Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, the difference in acidity in the stomach or part of the surgery process have been suggested as reasons why plain water isn't tolerated. Why is water important? Water plays many important roles within the body: Water helps carry nutrients around.

Whey protein contains an incredible range of essential amino acids that are absorbed quickly. Numerous studies have demonstrated that it can help you increase strength and gain muscle. Whey protein has also been shown to help with wound healing. Your body uses collagen protein to repair tissue and rebuild cartilage.

What is the best protein to eat before surgery? ›

 Include protein-rich foods with each meal. Some healthy choices are lean meat, fish, poultry, beans, eggs, cheese, nuts, tofu, milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, and protein drinks.  Drink at least 6 to 8 eight-ounce cups of fluid each day to stay well hydrated.

You may need to add protein powder or other foods such as fruit to help fill you up. Since the body cannot absorb more than about 30 grams at once, you will need to take in protein throughout the day, across multiple meals or healthy snacks.

Lunch: If you are stuck at work with a busy schedule, a protein drink can be a quick and nutritious alternative to a traditional lunch. It allows you to refuel and get back to work without missing a beat. Dinner: When life gets hectic in the evenings, a shake can be a lifesaver.

For a quick and easy breakfast that is high in protein, try a cottage cheese and fruit bowl. Simply mix together a half cup of low-fat cottage cheese with your favorite fruits such as berries, sliced banana, or diced apple.

Aim for a goal of ~ 60-80 grams of protein per day obtained from your protein shake. It would also be beneficial to add a general multivitamin and calcium supplement as a safety net in meeting basic nutrient needs.