Question:
My doctor says that I shouldn't count the calories in protein shakes

because the body takes the pre-digested proteins and tosses the rest away. He is wanting me to increase my proteins to 4 drinks a day. After doing this I have gained 2 lbs. Can someone reassure me that my doctor is right, that these calories "don't really count".    — JLynn B. (posted on August 16, 2000)

August 16, 2000
Does your surgeon have a nutritionist on staff? Unfortunately it doesn't sound like it, and to be honest, not all surgeons are well versed on nutrition. High calorie and high carbohydrate protein drinks are a no-no. You can increase your protein without necessarily adding lots of calories. It takes many of us a while to find a drink that we like and that is also suited to out dietary needs. I use a liquid protein (cherry flavor) found at GNC and made by challenge. 3 tblsp = 17 g protein. I mix it with Crystal Light. I tried other products and just didn't like them. Experiment a little more, and I'm sure you'll do fine. Best of luck to you.
   — Paula G.

August 16, 2000
JLynn: I agree with Paula. Your surgeon may know about surgery, but he must have slept through nutrition class! I think we all know the answer to your question -- there is no such thing as calories that "don't really count." I wish it were true, but it is not.
   — Cindy H.

August 16, 2000
Yes, he most likely is correct. The calories in the protein supplement don't really count against you, since they are all going directly to "work" for you. Presuming that the supplement you are using is a good one, high protein, low cal,sugar, carb, fat. BUT if you are mixing it with a high protein liquid, such as milk or juice, you can count on gaining from the liquid, not from the supplement. In fact, the more supplement you take (with water or s/f juice), the more wt you will lose. You will be flushing the fat, retaining muscle. Avoid the milks and sugars, as they are empty calories and you will wear them as fat. Stick with the protein supplements and you will find the cravings for sugars and other junks subsiding very quickly. Your doctor is speaking the truth.
   — vitalady

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