Adequate protein is crucial after bariatric surgery. Due to the rapid weight loss, it is important to obtain adequate protein through diet to maintain lean body mass. The first few months post surgery, the easiest way to consume protein is by drinking protein shakes. Protein shakes are easy to drink and will provide the most protein per volume.

Protein shakes should supplement the diet at least until 65-70 grams of protein can be consumed via food alone-that may take several months. Some bariatric programs encourage people to stop drinking protein shakes as soon as possible, stressing the importance of getting the digestive system used to food again. I would discourage anyone to stay on protein shakes only for an extended period of time. The digestive system will take long to adjust to food again. But protein shakes should be used to supplement the diet indefinitely.

Since little is known about the exact amount of protein that is absorbed via the gut after gastric bypass surgery and most people do not eat perfectly every day, having a protein shake (regardless how far out one is post-operatively) is a way to insure adequate protein intake. Just be creative and enjoy something different every day.



Gene C.