Protein Supplements Following Bariatric Surgery

A few weeks following bariatric surgery, you will begin using protein supplements after each meal to meet your daily protein requirements.

You will continue to consume protein supplements until you reach the Phase 4: Stabilization Diet. You may need to supplement with protein shakes between meals during the stabilization phase, if you can't meet your protein needs with food alone.

Protein Supplements vs. Meal Replacements After Bariatric Surgery

We recommend a “protein supplement” after meals, not a “meal replacement”  (it's okay to use a ½ cup of a meal replacement at mealtime).

What's the Difference?

  Protein Supplements Meal Replacements
What they contain
  • Protein
  • Little or no carbohydrates
  • Little or no fat
  • Protein
  • Carbohydrates
  • Fat
Calories 100-150 calories 200-250 calories

Choosing a Protein Supplement — General Guidelines

You can either make your own protein shakes — by mixing protein powder in 8 ounces of water — or purchase pre-made protein shakes.

  • Select a shake that contains at least 15 grams of protein per 8-ounce serving
  • Select a shake with around 100-150 calories 
  • Mix non-flavored protein powders with yogurt, strained cream soup, and other foods

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