Question:
Powdered milk vs. protien suppliments?

Ok, I have read thru the library and I am looking to find out the pro & cons of powdered milk vs. protien suppliments (the kind with no flavorings). Can I get enough of a protein boost to merit the use of the powdered milk? We have a large family and I'm looking for ways to boost my protein and not break the food budget!    — Peggy N. (posted on June 29, 2001)

June 29, 2001
I am 8 days post op and called a nutritionist at BTC to ask that same question. Because the protein powder has a lot more protein, she said to use regular skim milk if what you are making asks for milk and throw in the protein powder for the extra protein. Works great in soups and puddings. That's about all I'm eating right now! Good luck.
   — Shelley B.

June 30, 2001
The protein & calcium in milk products are not well absorbed after the age of 5 by an intact person. For us, RNY, they are not broken down in the stomach, because the stomach is no longer in the traffic plan of where the food travels. The sugars in the milk may help slow your wt loss, but the protein in it is so little that it may not be worth it to even try. Figuring you'd need to take in about 120g of milk proteins to net 60g of usable protein to thebody. Casein is lower on the BV list than whey products, and it is not pre-digested. So, dollar for dollar, pound of wt lost & pound of muscle retained, it might be good to explore some of the econo-wheys to hold down the whole food budget. There are some that can be bought in 6# tubs (for cheap) that will last quite awhile and are mild in flavor, smooth in texture.
   — vitalady

December 6, 2001
I have never had a problem with milk. I dod not Expect to have a problem with it after my surgery next week. I bought Carnation Nonfat dried milk(8gr protein per1/3 cup), and mix it with Skim(8 gr protein per cup. I mix Suger free Chocolate into it, and Bland with my Hand blender, and Boy is it good! I plan on getting all my protien from these "shakes", and if I cannot tolerate regular milk I will use lactaid, or Soy(silk). should be a good way to get double the protien per cup of Milk. That stuff about not absorbing all the protein from milk maybe true, but I have tried a few different Protein shakes, and the Double protein sugerfree Chocolate Milkshake is by far the best. I actually couldn't beleive the Sugerfree Chocolate Syrup would be that good!
   — sbinkerd1

February 17, 2002
My neighbor is a dietitian and she has told me a good way to get in extra protien is to use the powder milk by adding it to casseroles,mashed potatoes, soups,or whatever your cooking( while your cooking just add a couple tablespoons).Even if milk is not in the recipe it works. Just something to try. Hope it helps you ~Michelle~
   — Tx Michelle B.