Question:
Will I ever tolerate protein?

I am almost six weeks out and have just now found a protein powder that I can handle the taste of. I use the Syntrax Nectar, as many of us do. The problem is that it (and all protein supplements for that matter) makes me extremely sick to my stomach. I have tried everything and it is not getting any better. Lately, I've tried pouring it into one-ounce cups and drinking only one an hour, but I still feel sick. What do I do now?    — kristynush (posted on October 28, 2003)

October 28, 2003
Thats a interesting question/ I never used protein drinks but just lately have tried some, they all make me ill. I am over 2 years post op.
   — bob-haller

October 28, 2003
Hey! I couldn't drink protein that early either... I contribute my "never thrown up" to the fact that I didn't force them on myself. That early out, you do have stored protein you can use until you can learn to drink them. I don't think I got my first one down until 3 mos. out and I have had no problems but hair loss and that is pretty much a given. Give it some time. gail -95
   — Bama Beach Girl

October 28, 2003
I am 3 1/2 weeks postop and I hate the protein as well. It makes me sick to my stomach to swallow it. The bariatric coordinator at the Drs. office assures me that this will pass in time and my tastebuds will change. Sure hope so.
   — loisph

October 28, 2003
Here's an answer for you that is very simplistic- DONT DRINK PROTEIN POWDERS. There, problem solved. I don't mean to be sarcastic, so please take this light heartedly. What you can do however is look for alternative sources like actual food or CIB or milk with powdered milk added for extra protein, etc. Good luck to you! (oh- P.S. I'm 11 months post op, never found a protein shake that didn't make me sick, so I never drank one EVER. I have lost 144 lbs to date and am 12 lbs from my goal.)
   — LMCLILLY

October 28, 2003
My surgeon wouldn't let me try protein supplements til I was w months post-op. He said the pouch is not ready for that much concentrated protein. And then I couldn't find a drink I liked so I ate the Pure Protein bars. Now I use a variety of supplements including Detour Bars, Joyride Bars, Carb Solutions powder and bars, Atkins bars, Lactose Free SlimFast (my surgeon suggested it) and the new CarbSense bars.
   — Patty_Butler

October 28, 2003
My dietician told me to use skim milk powder. I get all the protein I need through my food. My blood is monitored regularly, so I'm doing okay, protein-wise. Cathy.
   — defatbroad

October 28, 2003
15 months postop and have never found a shake I liked...and I am not a glutton for punishment. If I were, likely would never have needed WLS to begin with. I know, people swear by them, but I just can't do it! I eat a ton of moz cheese sticks to get my protein in - I get 28 grams from it every morning and from there I have jerky, meat, eggs and other high protein foods to complete my needs for the day. Sometimes I have more moz cheese at night if my count is low for the day. I am now enjoying the detour (and it's cousins) bars for additional protein, however I couldn't stand them until I was nearly a year out. They just tasted funky to me lol. Good luck in whatever you decide to do!
   — [Deactivated Member]

October 28, 2003
Kristy... just wondered if you'd tried Unjury protein powder yet?! It tastes (to me) like the best chocolate milk I'd ever drank and not at ALL protein-y or gritty! Just a suggestion. God bless & take care!!
   — Amy G.