Question:
Is No Sugar Carnation Instant Breakfast a good source of Protein.

Tomorrow is surgery and I have not gotten my protein drink mix. Any Suggestions ?? Barbara    — Barbara F. (posted on August 20, 2003)

August 19, 2003
Some docs put their patients on this but unless your doctor has put you on it, it is best to stay away from it. It is not the best source of protein.
   — Delores S.

August 20, 2003
OK, it's not the BEST source of protein, but I does beat most of those nasty tasting protein powders by far. Especially in the beginning when your sense of taste is so sensitive. It's something you can use to up your protein, especially if you use with skim milk or soy. It is highly recommended in the beginning both by my Dr. and my nutritionist. So, take with a grain of salt all those- oh, it's too high in carbs answers. I used it for the first month and I still did great. You have to decide for yourself. Or, beter yet- make a call to your nutritionist and see what they advise.
   — LMCLILLY

August 20, 2003
Products such as SF Carnation Instant breakfast,ensure light and glucerna are used in the begining because they have both protein and carbohydrates. Post op your body does need some carbohydrate but not simple carbs as are found in some sugar containing products. You need protein for healing but if the calories arent adequate the protein back bone will be used for energy for healing. So, in the begining its okay to use Sugar Free CIB. Later on, when you are able to eat, you might try a shake that has better sources of protein and lower in carb as you will be eating carb from fruit, milk and starch/starchy veggies if you are eating a well balanced diet. So, its fine in the begining but might not be for the longer term depending on your dietary intake and protein needs! Take care Natalie
   — majorcat

August 20, 2003
I never did learn to tolerate the protein shakes, but did utelize the NSA-CIB early on. I switched to food though as soon as I could.
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 20, 2003
At nearly 5 months post op, I STILL use NSA CIB. I take 1 packet, and add to it 1/3 cup of dry milk, and to this I add 1 cup of skim milk. That gives me 20 grams of protein!! Not too bad in my opinion, and it sure beats the disgusting protein shakes I have tried, lol. Much cheaper too!!
   — Cat S.

August 20, 2003
My Dr had me drink 3 NSA Carnation Instant Breakfasts per day initially. Not instead of meals but rather between meals so I was actually getting 6 meals a day. I used 8 ounces of Skim Milk, plus 2 tablespoons of non-fat dry milk, along with the NSA CIB. He said that CIB has more protein, more carbs and less fat and sugar than Ensure or Boost or any other protein drink. He strongly discouraged other forms of protein drinks. He said they were ok in a pinch but not regularly. I still use CIB (5 years post) to get myself back on track and when I am having a rough time keeping food down (due to GERD and my ulcer and hiatal hernia). Check the nutrition label and compare for yourself. But,I strongly recommend it, in fact I just went back on it because I have recently gained weight and want to get it back off.
   — Roberta Murray