Question:
Is it worth sampling protein shakes before my operation (RNY Open) ?

I understand that Post-Op things will taste different to me. Will there be some correlation between which I like now and what I like then? For example, is it just that I'll prefer things less sweet then, or different consistancies? Or is the change in taste completely random?    — Beth S. (posted on December 11, 2002)

December 11, 2002
Completely random. It's probably worth it to taste ahead & pre-load with the one you like today, but not to buy a BUNCH of it. Stuff I loved was so-so postie. Some stuff didn't interest me for 2 yrs. My tastes have pretty much returned to pre-op now, oddly. I didn't suddenly HATE anything, though.
   — vitalady

December 11, 2002
The biggest change I have noticed at about 4 weeks out is everything tastes stronger than it did before. I could tolerate Proteinex before the surgery... now I cannot even smell it without a bad reaction.
   — LM O.

December 11, 2002
For the first four or five months my tastes were completely screwed up. I hated all meat and eggs, now I like them again. Everything tasted sweeter to me than it really was. Even a sugar free popsicle tasted way too sweet.
   — Linda A.

December 11, 2002
I'm a support group leader and I'd say that 90% or more of my large group would say that it's a waste of money because your taste buds seem to change for about 6 months or so after surgery. The best thing to do is to wait until after surgery and go to someplace like GNC who has a money back guarantee. I know that when you buy any supplements from GNC, just keep your receipt and you can take it back for a refund or exchange for something else to try, even if it's because you just don't like it.
   — Lynette B.

December 11, 2002
Thanks so much for your help, everyone!
   — Beth S.

March 16, 2009
Sadly, I have spent about $350+ in protein drinks and I am only 1 week out of surgery and find that I am now repulsed by all the drinks I purchased and some I really liked! It is good to try different ones, but it is true that your taste buds will change. I didn't think it would be possible so fast, but it is true. I now find myself only being able to tolerate the pre-made Isopure drink. It is more like a cross between a SooBee and Crystal Light. If I see anything that is close to a thick milk base, I am repulsed. Yes, try them, but realize that what you liked before you may not later. Go to Vitalady.com and order single trial sizes. Don't waste money like I did.--Sylvia
   — [Deactivated Member]