Question:
My doctor says I'm dumping on protein shakes

I'm 4 weeks post-op, and I'm having trouble with the protein supplements. It's not the taste -- I actually like the taste, having done Atkin for years -- but rather it's how I feel after I eat or drink a protein supplement that's bothering me. About half-way through a shake or 1/4 way through a protein bar, my head starts to feel woozy and I start feeling nauseated and ready to lay down. I mentioned it to my surgeon and he said, "Oh, yeah, sometimes folks dump on protein supplements." He did not, however, give me any suggestions on how I could stop this from happening. I was told "just do the best you can." I'm concerned, because I'm starting to avoid the stuff, and that's not good! Any advice is most gratefully welcomed.    — Felissa L. (posted on November 5, 2001)

November 5, 2001
Felissa,<br> How much sugar and fat are in the supplement that you are using? The SciFit I like is 1.5g fat, 1.5g sugar, 3g carbs and 22g protein in one 28.4g scoop. I usually consume it 1.5 scoops at a time, knowing that the most protein most people can absorb at one time is 30g.<br>Dumping is usually caused by high sugar and/or high fat content, so I'd look at those things first. Good luck!
   — Julia M.

November 5, 2001
I can't take the shakes either. Not because of dumping...I seem to be allergic to them or something. I throw them up about 10 minutes after eating them. I'm like you, the taste isn't what gets me. For me, I've had to learn to eat high protein foods and drink more milk. I try to drink 3-5 cups of skim milk an/or high protein foods like lean sirloin with tofu, shrimp, chicken, tuna etc. Personally I wouldn't take the particular shake that makes you so sick. I know that when I did take the shakes, I really preferred Designer Whey Chocolate from GNC. As for "some people dump on shakes"...well, perhaps some people are taking the wrong shakes??? Who knows? Do what you need to...you may have to be inventive. Good luck to you!
   — Kristin R.

November 5, 2001
DEFINITELY check the grams of sugar in the shakes. If you are using a Slim Fast or Boost type you are having a lot of sugar grams. Some people can tolerate that many, but most can't. Shelley
   — Shelley.

November 5, 2001
I have to agree with the other posters that you are probably dumping from the fat and/or sugar content in those shakes, or you are lactose intolerant. A good choice of protein drink is Zero Carb Isopure which is sold at GNC stores.It has 40 grms of protein for a 20 ounce bottle, only 160 calories, no sugars, no carbs and no fat. It is like Kool Aid and most of the flavors taste really good. The best ones are the Alpine Punch, Blue Raspberry and the Grape. They also count as your clear liquids. I love them, I put it on ice and sip away. A hint: if you do try them, shake it up very well as the whey protein sometimes floats until you shake it.Also, I am now 5 months out and get most of my protein from food, so I now only take 1/2 a bottle a day which is more cost effective as they are a bit pricey. Good luck!
   — Vicki K.

November 6, 2001
It's me (the original poster). I'm sorry I wasn't more clear in my first post. I use Lactaid milk and sugar-free protein powder (Designer Protein, ProBlend 55, Isopure). I've also used Isopure Zero carb. All give me the same yucky results. It's a head scratcher, that's for sure. I'll just keep plugging away, and make certain to go at it with both barrels on the food front. Thanks for your suggestions. I appreciate it.
   — Felissa L.

November 6, 2001
Still think it might be the milk. Even though it's Lactaid, it will still have sugar? Try having your protein with water instead of milk....don't need the extra calories from the milk anyway right? Just MHO. HUGS and much luck.
   — Jo (Part 2) C.

November 6, 2001
Don' know if this will help, but her goes, I have found a GREAT PROTEIN DRINK source that works for me, and maybe for others. It's Twinlab Metabolift (comes in 3 flavors Vanilla, Peaches N Creme and Chocolate) It is whey based and has 23 grams of protein per serving, it uses Sucralose for sweetening (only 0-2 grams sugar) and is low in carbs (3 grams) Personally I drink it with 16 ozs of water instead of 8 since it tastes so sweet and I mix the vanilla 1 scoop to peaches or choc because the flavors are strong, BUT it is highly drinkable, creamy, and wonderful and mixes instantly with stirring or shaking. You can get full nutritional info from the Twinlab website. I found the best price so far on Yahoo Shopping at 14.99 a can (retail is 24.99 yikes!) Hey, let me know if you find a better price, ok. I love this stuff!!! I know I sound like a commercial but this stuff is great!!
   — potterylady

November 6, 2001
Try Pro Score 100. It's mixed with water. Good luck.
   — [Deactivated Member]