Opti-fast vs. Other Protein Drinks

Hi Everyone!

I am still pre-op until September, but since joining here a few months ago I have read a lot about different pre-op diets. They seem to vary a great deal!

Is this just based on the preference of the surgeon or is their 'scientific' data to back it up? My understanding is the pre-op diet is to assist in shrinking the liver, weight loss & acclimation to your new way of eating.

If my understanding is correct why would some patients be required to take something like Opti-fast if they have already been complying w/after surgery dietary requirements  & have lost a substantial amount of weight pre-op?

Opti-fast appears to be one of the most expensive drinks required. I drink a protein drink that I would prefer over this. I am just suspicious in this day & age if that is related to doctor/sales rep relationships rather than in the best interest of the patient...or if I am just being stubborn!

Thanks for any input.

I do think it has to do with the doctor/sales rep relationship. I had to buy bariatric advantage shakes from my surgeon for my pre-op diet. I had already bought them before I realized they were HORRIBLE!! He wanted me to drink them post-op and I refused. He then said I could drink Slim Fast low carb shakes instead (not sure they even make them anymore- now in a pinch I drink slim fast high protein shakes).

It's the doctor/sales rep scenario, I'm afraid.  I was forced to buy a bunch of horrible products for my pre-op diet and some even worse tasting vitamins.  It was non-negotiable and not cheap.  The multivitamins from Bariatric Advantage grossed me out.  When I finished my supply, I switched to another brand.

Yep. I did feel like I had to play the game until after my surgery then stood my ground and refused to buy any more of their crap.

My doc gave me guidelines for my protein shakes but highly suggested the Premium brand because the protein, calorie, sugars/carbs ratio is better than other brands.  I had already been using this brand so I stuck with it.  I like them them, my favorite is the strawberry and sometimes I add a little sugar/calorie free strawberry powder mix to give it that extra boost. Last night I didn't want strawberry so I added a chocolate sugar/calorie free powder and it ended up tasting like a chocolate malt.  The store I bought the packets from no longer carries them so I'm not sure what I will do to switch it up a little when my packets are gone, good thing I have three boxes (ea) left and only use them occasionally when I want a little change. 

The Cleveland Clinic recommends certain brands: Premier Protein for RTD, Nectar and Unjury for mixes -- but as long as the shakes are under 200 calories, 13 grams of carbs and 18 grams of protein or more -- they are fine for the pre-op diet.  The only ones they absolutely said "no" to were Carnation Instant Breakfast, Atkins and Slim Fast.

Thank you everyone for your feedback!

I was inclined to think it was the doctor/sales rep relationship, but wanted to make sure I wasn't being close-minded. The Cleveland Clinic info was interesting...I wonder if my surgeon would be offended if I brought it to his attention? (LOL)

I don't know yet how mandatory doing the Opti-fast is since I am not there yet, but it is in our booklet that our surgeon appt. before surgery included purchasing Opti-fast to the tune of almost $400! Ugh! I could so use that money on stocking my pantry w/ good food!

We'll see how this goes!

Thanks again!

I know that I've read in some posts from my Canadian friends that they were required to use Opti.  Frankly, if you like your surgeon and he/she requires it -- I'd just jump through the hoop even though it would irritate me!

Don't let them force you to buy Opti-fast. You are much better off eating whole food. Have you ever looked at the ingredients list for those "weight loss products"? Nothing but crap.

My program didn't require any special drinks, powders, or vitamins before or after surgery. I was given the task of losing 10 pounds before moving to the next step in being approved for surgery.  The day before surgery was the only day that I needed to have an all liquid diet. 

If you have to buy the products directly through the clinic, then I would suspect it has to do with their supplier relationships, getting kick-backs, or making a profit on jacking up the prices.  

Could you tell them that you prefer a different brand and would rather go that route? 

Good Luck!!