Question:
Are Protein drinks considered a meal?

This might sound like a stupid question, but are protein drinks considered a meal; I mean, do you consider it to be a liquid or a food? Do you drink it as you would water, or do you have to take an hour to drink it like you'd do with food? Do you have to wait an hour before & an hour after drinking water? Or can you drink water immediately before & after the protein drink? I hope I don't sound too confusing. Oh, I just wanted to thank all you guys for all the info I got on this site about protein that tastes good. And thanks to Vitalady for having those samples avalable!!! So far I've tried the Isopure, Dutch Chocolate and the Extreme Pure Pro, Grape, and they really DO taste good! Thanks guys! The only problem, though, at least w/ the Isopure, is that it seems to give me gas. I believe it's the whey in it. Does anyone know a protein powder that tastes good, that doesn't have whey? I can't have soy either. TIA.    — lalasmommy (posted on June 21, 2001)

June 21, 2001
I also drink a protein drink.. because, I am worried about not getting enough Protien in during the day.. I drink a Protien drink every morning for breakfast.. I use it in place of a meal.. I use 2 scoops of Designer Protien mixed with water and half of a Banana and it carries me thru until lunch time.. So I would say to use it as a meal and also your getting your water in this way also.. Good Luck..
   — Debbie R.

June 21, 2001
I went for my 3 month post-op visit today & my Dr. really doesn't encourage you to drink protein suppliments. I told him I was feeling hungary a couple of hrs. after having breakfast. I also was drinking it for breakfast. He said the new pouch should be filled with food 4x's a day. On some days I was having just a yogurt & that too is considered a liquid. He said if I must have the protein drinks have them an hour before or after my meals & it will count as my liquid & extra protein for the day. I drink Carb Solutions & Pro-Blend 55.
   — socco58

June 21, 2001
I drink a protein drink for breakfast and another one midmorning. I consider that my breakfast and morning snack. Then I have another one for a midafternoon snack. This is the only way I can keep my protein up where it needs to be. On days that I lift weights I add another one. So, one of them is a meal and the others are snacks for me. I do drink water before and after them and have always done so. I think eventually you work out a schedule that makes sense for you. This is just what works for me. Good luck! Ann RNY 9/10/99 260/125
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