Help! Info On Protein Bars/Shakes

Being in the UK and a member of a forum there too, I asked about the protein shakes/bars etc, and it seems that people only tend to have protein shakes during the healing stage, ie, liquid, puree and mash stage.  Once back onto 'proper' food it's so easy to get the quantity of good protein into your diet purely but eating a good diet of real food.  For example, if you have a meal of chicken, vegetables and some potato with the majority of the plate being chicken and a similar type lunch ie, tuna/chicken/egg/etc salad why would you be needing protein shakes. 

I've been looking at the various protein powders and whilst I think they are a good idea if you are unwell, sick etc. to make sure you are getting something inside you.  I don't know why I'd need them on a daily basis if I'm having plenty of protein on my plate. 

I don't know if I'm right or wrong as I've not had my op yet so I'd welcome your opinions on the matter please. 

Mrs Quiggle xxx

You will probably need protein via shakes or bars for some time. Even now, at almost 2 years out, I drink protein. The amount of food you can consume is so small, especially at first, that even if all you ate was some chicken at each meal, you likely would not get in the required protein for the day. It takes some time before eating 3oz of chicken becomes easy (its dense and can make you uncomfortable at first)...same with other things like even tuna or beef.

It is hard to fathom exactly how little you can consume until you actually have surgery and either aren't hungry, or realize you are full after a few bites. lol

There are several of us here that don't do protein shakes or supplements after the liquid stage too!  You need to follow the recommendations of your plan there as we all do here ...

Some people have liquid diets for weeks on end pre-surgery - some of us didn't.   Some have bowel prep, other's don't.    All surgeons and programs have their protocols.

Thanks both of you.  It's interesting to see the different views about it.  I can see how you wouldn't be able to eat enough protein in a day to get the quota needed for a good healthy diet capable to build and repair the body. 

My only concern is that the majority of these seem to have lots of chemicals in them for flavouring, sweetners, preservatives, colour etc. and I prefer to eat as few of these as possible.  I dare say that there will be some with fewer addatives.  Just call me a barmy English Chick lol.

Mrs Quiggle xxx

I am English too, BTW (there are a few of us around here) - I just live in Colorado! My sister had RNY in the UK in September last year and has done really well on her protocols ...

You don't need them on a daily basis if you are getting enough protein from food.

Some people manage to get enough protein from food very early out.  It takes others longer.  It depends on what types of food you like to eat, what you tolerate, how much you eat at a meal (some people seem to have more restriction than others), how many times a day you eat (obviously if you eat six small meals you'll be able to get more protein in than someone that only eats three small meals a day), etc.

I don't eat meat.  I eat vegetarian sources of protein, but six ounces of beans just does not have as much protein as six ounces of chicken.  So it took a while before I could get enough protein just from food.  Some people find that eating first thing in the morning makes their stomach queasy.  They feel better if they do a protein shake for breakfast.  Sometimes I just don't feel very hungry but I still want to get my protein in and then a shake is easier than eating food.  I also find protein shakes quick and easy.  If I'm in a hurry, I can grab a shake and drink it in the car.  Plus I just like my protein shakes.  I enjoy them, they are yummy and they are healthy for me.  What's not to like?

Thanks Kelly that all makes perfect sense.It's great to be able to see each side of things from different people.  Think I will source some and give them a try.  I have to do a two week milk diet (only eating SF yogurt and skimmed milk) for 2 weeks so I may well be looking forward to a protein shake after 2 weeks of milk.

Mrs Quiggle xxx

I am one of those that doesn't do well with "food" in the mornings, so
every morning I have a nice, warm chai tea protein drink. It makes me and
my pouch warm and happy.  At 9 months out I still have the occasional
fussy pouch day and when that happens, I have some of my home-made
soups that I keep in the freezer, and probably 2 or 3 protein drinks during
the day. I just do what the pouch likes because when she's happy, I'm
happy.