If you’ve recently undergone bariatric surgery, you know how important it is to get enough protein in your diet to support healing and maintain muscle mass as you lose weight.
But with a smaller stomach capacity, it can be challenging to eat enough protein-rich foods. That’s where protein shakes come in – they provide a convenient, easy-to-digest way to boost your protein intake.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best bariatric protein shake for your needs. In this article, we’ll break down the top 10 protein shakes for bariatric patients based on factors like protein content, taste, digestibility, and cost.
Whether you’re in the immediate post-op phase or maintaining your weight loss long-term, we’ve got you covered with the best options to support your recovery and health.
What to Look for in a Bariatric Protein Shake
High Protein Content
After bariatric surgery, you need more protein than the average person to prevent muscle loss, promote healing, and keep you feeling full between meals. Look for shakes that pack at least 20-30 grams of protein per serving.
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey protein isolate is the preferred protein source for bariatric patients because it’s highly digestible, low in lactose, and contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. Avoid shakes with lots of fillers or inferior protein sources.
Low Sugar and Carbs
Too much sugar can cause dumping syndrome and stall weight loss after bariatric surgery. Choose shakes with no more than 5 grams of sugar per serving and opt for low-carb varieties to keep blood sugar stable.
Our Top 10 Picks
1. Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacement
With 27 grams of whey protein isolate, 5 grams of fiber, and only 2 grams of sugar per serving, this shake is an excellent choice for bariatric patients. It comes in delicious flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry and mixes easily with water or milk.
2. Unjury Protein Powder
Unjury packs 21 grams of whey protein isolate per scoop with zero fat or sugar. It’s unflavored, so you can mix it into anything from shakes to soups for a protein boost. Unjury also offers a chicken soup flavor that’s perfect for sipping in the early post-op days.
3. Premier Protein Clear Protein Drink
If you’re tired of thick, chalky shakes, try Premier’s clear protein drinks. With 20 grams of whey protein isolate, zero fat or sugar, and refreshing fruit flavors, they’re a tasty way to get your protein on the go. Plus they’re less filling than creamy shakes.
4. Nectar Whey Protein Isolate
Nectar’s whey protein isolate contains 24 grams of protein per scoop with only 1 gram of carbs. It comes in fun flavors like fuzzy navel, caribbean cooler, and strawberry kiwi. Mix it with water or blend it with ice for a protein slushy.
5. Celebrate Bariatric Protein 20
This bariatric-specific protein powder provides 20 grams of whey protein isolate per scoop along with vitamins and minerals to support post-op nutrition needs. With flavors like café mocha, cinnamon bun, and mint chocolate chip, you’ll never get bored.
6. Bariatric Fusion Meal Replacement
Bariatric Fusion meal replacements contain a blend of whey protein isolate and concentrate for a total of 27 grams of protein. They’re also high in fiber and low in sugar. Choose from classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla or fun options like cinnamon roll and cookies & cream.
7. Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder
Isopure’s zero carb protein powder is perfect for bariatric patients watching their carb intake. It provides 25 grams of whey protein isolate per scoop with no sugar or fat. The creamy vanilla and dutch chocolate flavors taste great mixed with just water.
8. Syntrax Nectar Whey Protein Isolate
Another great-tasting option, Syntrax Nectar provides 23 grams of whey protein isolate per scoop in unique flavors like twisted cherry, roadside lemonade, and apple ecstasy. It mixes instantly and tastes light and refreshing.
9. BariWise High Protein Powder
BariWise protein powders are designed specifically for bariatric patients, with 15 grams of whey protein isolate and 5 grams of fiber per scoop. They’re available in classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla as well as fun options like orange cream and iced latte.
10. Chike High Protein Coffee
If you miss your morning latte, try Chike’s high protein coffee. With 20 grams of whey protein isolate, a boost of caffeine, and delicious mocha and vanilla flavors, it’s the perfect way to start your day. Just mix it with water or milk and enjoy it hot or iced.
How to Use Protein Shakes
As a Meal Replacement
In the early stages after bariatric surgery, you may rely on protein shakes as your main source of nutrition. As you progress to soft foods and solid foods, you can continue using shakes as an easy meal replacement or snack. Aim for at least 60-80 grams of protein per day.
To Boost Protein Intake
If you’re struggling to get enough protein from food alone, adding a scoop of protein powder to shakes, smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt can help you meet your daily needs. You can also mix unflavored protein powder into soups, sauces, and other recipes.
Before or After Exercise
Drinking a protein shake before or after your workout can help build and repair muscle tissue. Look for shakes with a good balance of protein and carbs for exercise recovery.
Conclusion
Getting enough protein is crucial for bariatric patients to maintain muscle mass, promote healing, and feel their best as they lose weight. Protein shakes offer a convenient, tasty way to boost protein intake when food sources aren’t enough.
When choosing a bariatric protein shake, look for high-quality whey protein isolate, low sugar and carbs, and great taste. Our top 10 picks offer something for everyone, whether you prefer classic flavors or unique varieties. Experiment to find the ones you love and rotate flavors to avoid taste fatigue.
Remember, protein shakes should supplement a balanced diet, not replace whole foods entirely. As you progress in your post-op journey, work with your bariatric dietitian to transition to more solid, protein-rich foods while still enjoying shakes as an easy option.
With the right nutrition plan and plenty of protein, you’ll be well on your way to reaching your weight loss goals and living your healthiest life.