Question:
How to get in Protein?

Hi Guys! I am having the VBG done Mon. Sept. 8. My doctor requires a 6 week liquid diet post-op. My question is is there any way to get in protein during that 6 week period? Should that be my concern or not? I know that that this period is to allow my stomach to heal but I know most of you post as to how important protein is. Please Help!!!    — L B. (posted on September 6, 2003)

September 6, 2003
Hi!! Yep, You DO NEED and you can get in liquid protein during that time period very easily with protein shakes. There are tons of them out there, and it is just a matter of finding out what kind you like. Browse the web for people who offer samples before you go out and buy a box or jug full of powder/drinks though... some of them may taste great to one person and horrible to you!! LOL!! The bad thing is, that your taste buds will change dramatically after surgery, so don't even bother to try and find one that you like now, because you may not be able to stomach it after wls!! One of the easiest things I know to tell you to do is get a hold of some of the oderless, tasteless protein powders and have them ready to mix into anything you drink. It is the safest way to "invest" in protein supplements for the liquid diet. Check out my second profile for some help with other liquids you can have while on the liquid portion of your diet. NOW... having said all this, I just recently tried a different protein shake (they sell samples... 7 flavors for $4.95... and that includes shipping!!) and am IN LOVE!! The only problem is that it does have 4.5 grams of sugar per shake. Since you are having the VBG, it may not be a problem... the site is Gourmetprotein.com and so far, I have tried two of the seven flavors and they were both so good, I am going to have problems knowing which flavors to order the big buckets of! LOL!! Good Luck and warm hugs!! Email me if I can be of further help!! -- sharon
   — Sharon m. B.

September 6, 2003
I use a virtually odorless, tasteless protein powder. Had a hard time finding anything I could stand. I buy Bioplex Pure Whey Protein Isolate from Craig nutraceuticals. (530/676-8838) This is very good stuff. No fats, no carbs, lactose free and mixes instantly. I add things to mine to make it whatever I want it to be. I have used Carnation Instant Breakfast, skim or soy milk (soy has better texture and a different flavor...makes life interesting)with a scoop of powder. I have also used a whole small peach, a half cup of skim or soy milk with a scoop of protein powder (22 grams of protein); add a little banana or any other kind of fruit for variation. Allllll kinds of things you can do to make this drink enjoyable. I have my protein shake for breakfast EVERY morning. Very filling and sustaining. Somebody sent me email once telling me there are other places you can buy Bioplex Pure Whey Protein Isolate a lot cheaper. Cruise the web and check it out. Good luck to you on your up and coming surgery. (Open RNY 10/30/02 minus 191 lbs.)
   — Ginger M.

September 6, 2003
Congrats on your surgery being here. Your new healthy life is literally just around the corner. Yes it is very important to get in protein for healing purposes and so your body does not go after the protein in your body. Since you are on liquids for 6 weeks it will have to come from protein drinks. I will leave others to give you ideas on good ones etc. as I have never used one. Good Luck!
   — zoedogcbr

September 7, 2003
I use Unjury Chocolate protein powder mixed with 6 or 8 ounces of skim milk. It gives me 26 or 28 grams of protein(depending on how much milk) and tastes just like chocolate milk. It is shipped the day after you order then arrives 2 business days later. I consider that VERY fast. It is the best protein drink I have ever tried!! Good luck on wls and recovery.
   — TheresaC

September 7, 2003
NECTAR NECTAR NECTAR! I couldn't find a protein shake before surgery that I remotely liked. I picked one and choked it down day after day. I decided I couldn't live like this for the next year to year and a half so I contacted Vitalady and ordered a bunch of protein samples from her. The day I tasted the Apple Ecstasy Nectar was the day that I thought I was in heaven! I have let all of my friends try it and they are converted, even my husband who is 6', 175lbs and NOT a post-op! Good luck to you!
   — SMG I.