Question:
Why CIB and not a Protein Shake

I am post op and unclear on why my Dr. would allow carnation instant breakfast drinks but not protein drinks. I hate the idea of eating anything post op that hasn't got alot of protein in it. Since I won't be able to get much food in at all, shouldn't what I do get in be packed with protein??    — WendieS (posted on June 13, 2003)

June 13, 2003
The truth is that most doctors are absolutley clueless when it comes to nutrition. They're generally required to take a 1 hour nutrition course in Med school and that's it. Now, don't get me wrong, they mean well, but they have no idea that there are many delicious protein shakes out there today that have virtually no sugar or carbs, are low calorie and are not made to "bulk us up." So, it's up to us to teach them, and if they don't have a God complex, maybe they just might learn something.
   — Leslie F.

June 13, 2003
I agree whole heartedly with what Leslie said. There are many people on this board who are getting poor nutrition info from their docs. People seem to have this idol worship of docs and just take whatever they say as true and accurate. I really appreciate people who can accept that you can't be totally knowledgable in all things and who look to others for their knowledge. That to me is a sign of a smart person. I am referring to docs here. It amazes me when I see people on this board who's physician has them drinking ensure and other high calorie drinks. My nutritionist does not believe carnation instant breakfast is a good value-meaning protein to calories ratio. I am a researcher and I have to say this makes sense to me. I guess one of the things I would look for when choosing a doc is someone who keeps current by going to the seminars and conventions on wls. I would also look for someone who has a nutritionist familar with wls who also keeps current. I could be wrong, but this is just my honest opinion. Lynda
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 13, 2003
Hi, I agree most doctors are clueless to nutritional needs. That is why their are nutritionist. I had my surgery done through a hospital program and they do include CIB as a part of the post-op diet. However, it is only 1/2 a serving. The rest of my protein comes from normal food. CIB has a lot of other nutrients and vitamins...I do not know what other protein shakes have since I do not use them. I did buy two protien bars today to see if I like them, but I also realize that the protein and calories from 1 Detour bar is about equal to 2 string cheese...and that cheese is a lot cheaper. No I haven't compared the fat between the two. In the end I like variety and I'm trying to incorporate many foods into my meals.
   — Sarahlicious

June 13, 2003
I suggest that you find a protein shake you like, bring the nutritional info in to your doc, and let him see it (compared to CIB's nutritional info). I think lots of docs really are unfamiliar with the better options out there. Plus, sometimes they just picture big body builder dudes using those shakes, and think they'll just be empty calories in our hands (not if you think it through, though!). Also, I think lots of docs recommend CIB simply because you can easily find it in any grocery store and mix it with skim milk, and they don't want to make it hard for their patients to find anything at all for protein, so they recommend with what they think will be an easy option for the patient. Try to educate him about what you found that's better. :~) Might help him and his other patients in the long run; it'll certainly be better for you.
   — Suzy C.

June 13, 2003
My doctor said that the CIB shakes are cheaper.
   — judyc7

June 13, 2003
I find it amazing how doctors vary in what they advise patients--no protein shakes, just food, yes protein shakes; salad at 6 weeks--salad at 3 months. No bread, yes toast or no toast yes crackers. Having said that, my surgeon said no CIB but yes protein shakes. She recommends the ProComplex which is okay if you doctor it up with a little decaf coffee crystals and sugar free syrups. It does have 54 gms of high quality protein a serving. If I were you, I guess I would go back to the doctor with info about the protein shakes and compare the carbs and protein to the CIB. After all, you did pay the MD the big bucks because you trust his/her judgment.
   — Margaret S.

June 14, 2003
my Dr would never allow CIB. He has a nutritionist in the office that handles the food issues. The Dr does the surgeries. You know the saying behind every good man their is a great woman! :o) They have me following a low carb high protein diet of liquids only for my first 4 weeks! CIB even SF, has like 30+g of carbs! I am only allowed 15g a day... empty calories. I would find a protein shake instead. At least you are getting what you need! Good Luck.
   — heather S.