What is the best bariatric protein powder?
If you are looking for the best bariatric protein powder, you have come to the right place. Learn more about protein powder for bariatric patients so you can easily and safely meet your protein needs. This article was written by Jack Schrupp & Brittany Adelman, RDN.
How to choose a bariatric protein powder
What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to help people who are severely obese lose weight. It involves changing the digestive tract to limit the amount of food one can eat. There are different types of bariatric surgery. The three most common procedures are:
Gastric bypass surgery: This involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to this pouch.
Sleeve gastrectomy: This involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a small sleeve-shaped section.
Adjustable gastric banding: This involves placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach, which can be adjusted to control the amount of food that can be eaten.
Bariatric surgery is typically recommended for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with other obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. It is usually considered a last resort after other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have been exhausted.
Are protein powders good for bariatric surgery?
Pre-op diet
A liquid diet is required for bariatric patients 7-14 days before surgery. It helps reduce the amount of fat around the liver, which is important because your liver sits on top of your stomach. This is where the surgeon will be performing the surgery, and a large liver can make it difficult to see your stomach during the procedure.
During the pre-op period, protein shakes are a must-have. Protein is the most satiating (filling) nutrient, and helps curb cravings and hunger pangs, making the pre-op period more comfortable.
Post-op diet
A liquid diet is also required for most bariatric patients about 7 days after surgery. For the first day or so after surgery, you will only be allowed to drink clear liquids. Once you can stomach clear liquids, you can start adding thick liquids to your diet. This includes protein shakes. The “thick liquid” phrase also lasts for about 7 days, and getting lots of protein at this time is important for several reasons.
First of all, protein helps with recovery. Not eating enough protein after surgery can compromise your ability to heal and prolong the stages of wound healing. Moreover, research shows that postoperative protein consumption is linked to weight loss. In other words, eating lots of protein after your surgery can help you reach your long-term weight loss goals.
Finally, in the months following surgery, bariatric patients should aim to eat 60 to 80 grams of protein per day. For some, this is a lot of protein, and may necessitate the use of a protein powder. Adding a scoop of protein powder to your diet is an easy way to boost your protein intake and fill in any nutritional gaps you might have.
Meal replacement powders can be another helpful option while navigating post-surgery recovery. Unlike protein powders, meal replacement powders provide a balance of fats, carbs, and protein to help you meet your nutritional needs and keep you full while healing from surgery.
What is the best protein powder for bariatric patients?
Unfortunately, not all protein powders are created equal. Most protein powders are made with ingredients that can cause painful side effects and long term health problems. Among these ingredients are food additives, dairy-based proteins, and protein concentrates and isolates.
Avoid food additives
Most protein powders contain emulsifiers, thickeners, and other additives, which can not only upset your stomach (more about this later), but also alter the composition and function of your gut microbiome – the collection of microorganisms living in your gut. This can lead to gut dysbiosis, or an imbalance in your gut microbiota. Gut dysbiosis is not only a leading driver of inflammation, but also contributes to wide range of chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity, type 1 diabetes, and colorectal cancer.
It is worth mentioning that bariatric patients with healthy gut microbiomes have better outcomes because a healthy gut plays an important role in weight loss and reduces the likelihood of complications post-bariatric surgery. Moreover, an overview of existing literature also shows that bariatric surgery itself can damage the gut microbiome, meaning that bariatric patients are at increased risk of developing gut-related conditions.
Avoid dairy-based proteins
Dairy-based proteins like whey and casein, although not an issue for everyone, can cause side effects like bloating and diarrhea. This is in part because they contain lactose, a sugar most adults cannot fully digest. It is also likely related to the amount of processing required to make them. Continue reading to learn more.
Avoid protein concentrates and isolates
Most protein powders, including all whey and pea protein powders, are made from protein concentrates and isolates. Basically, protein sources like whey and peas do not contain enough protein by weight to be used as a protein supplement, and must have their non-protein components removed. This strips away the enzymes, fiber, and other natural digestive aids that help you break them down.
Basically, the best bariatric protein powder is made with a short list of simple ingredients. By avoiding added junk and heavily-processed ingredients, you can ensure that your protein supplement does not cause side effects or long-term complications.
drink wholesome is the best bariatric protein powder
One of the reasons why we make the best bariatric protein powder is that we do not use any food additives whatsoever.
our ingredients:
egg whites, coconut, cocoa, monk fruit
the alternative:
Protein Matrix Comprised of (Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Calcium Caseinate, Micellar Casein, Milk Protein Isolate, Egg Albumen, Glutamine Peptides), Polydextrose, Sunflower Creamer (Sunflower Oil, Corn Syrup Solids, Sodium Caseinate, Mono- and Diglycerides, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Soy Lecithin, Tocopherols), Natural and Artificial Flavor, MCT Powder (Medium Chain Triglycerides, Nonfat Dry Milk, Disodium Phosphate, Silicon Dioxide), Lecithin, Cellulose Gum, Salt, Yellow 5, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Papain, Bromelain
Food additives are hard to digest and feed gut bacteria, which release gas as they eat. As you might imagine, too much intestinal gas can cause bloating, flatulence, and stomach pain.
Partially digested food additives also cause your colon to absorb too much water, which can lead to diarrhea. Here is a list of the most common food additives in protein powder:
acacia fiber, acacia gum, acesulfame potassium, artificial flavors, ascorbic acid, aspartame, calcium carbonate, carrageenan, cellulose gum, dextrin, dicalcium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, erythritol, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, inulin, locust bean gum, maltodextrin, mono- and diglycerides, ‘natural’ flavors, rice bran extract, rice dextrin, rice hulls, rosemary extract, silica, silicon dioxide, sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, soluble corn fiber, soy lecithin, sucralose, sunflower lecithin, tocopherols, tricalcium phosphate, xanthan gum, xylitol, zinc oxide
Another reason why we make the best protein powder for bariatric patients is that we do not use dairy-based proteins like whey and casein. Whey and casein, which are byproducts of cheese and yogurt production, resist digestion and tend to cause digestive issues.
A final reason why we make the best bariatric surgery protein powder is that we do not use protein concentrates or isolates. Nearly all other protein powders are made from one or both of these protein sources, which look nothing like real food.
Instead of using protein concentrates or isolates, we make protein powder with whole foods like collagen, egg whites, and almonds. Protein sources like these are easy to digest and absorb. They also each bring a unique set of digestive benefits to the table.
Collagen can reduce bloating and improve digestive symptoms. Almonds are rich in prebiotic fiber and improve the composition of your gut microbiome. Egg whites are alkaline, meaning they balance the pH levels in your gut, and promote the growth of good gut bacteria.
Our customers experience fewer digestive issues with our protein powders than with any other type of protein supplement. Order samples to see for yourself.
★★★★★
simple and delicious
“I have PCOS and have a really hard time losing weight. I’m on a low-carb, high protein diet, but I don’t eat enough protein most days. I started using protein powder, but all the ones I tried upset my stomach, until I found this one. I add it to everything. It’s simple and easy to digest.” – Eva
What should you look for in a protein powder when recovering from bariatric surgery? Insights from a registered dietitian
When it comes to choosing a protein powder that meets your specific needs post-surgery, several qualities should be considered:
1. High protein content: Opt for protein powders that contain at least 15 grams of protein per serving. This will help you meet your increased protein requirements after weight loss surgery.
2. Low sugar: Look for protein powders that have less than 5g of sugar or are sugar-free. This is important to prevent blood sugar spikes and to support weight management.
3. No artificial sweeteners: Opt for natural sources of sweetness in your protein powder whenever possible as artificial sweeteners like sucralose can irritate the gut during recovery.
4. Good taste: Taste is an important factor to consider post weight loss surgery. If your protein supplement does not taste good, you will be less likely to use it, so find one you like!
5. Easy to digest: Bariatric patients may have reduced stomach capacity or altered digestion after surgery. Choose protein powders that are easily digestible, such as those made with simple, whole-food ingredients.
6. Quality ingredients: Check the ingredient list to make sure there are no additives or ingredients that you may be sensitive to. Protein powders full of added junk will not support your recovery.
In summary, by considering these qualities, you will choose a protein powder that not only gives you the protein you need, but that is also enjoyable to use and supports your long-term health and weight management goals.
What other nutritional factors should you consider after bariatric surgery? Insights from a registered dietitian
After undergoing bariatric surgery, it is essential to prioritize not only your protein intake, but also your overall diet to support your recovery. Here are a registered dietitian’s top tips for optimizing your post-surgery diet.
1. Remember to stay hydrated! Dehydration is one of the most common reasons for hospital stays after surgery. Adequate hydration is particularly important for bariatric patients as it supports digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination. Be sure to follow these guidelines:
– Drink at least 64 to 96 ounces of non-carbonated water/liquid per day.
– Do not consume more than 8 to 16 ounces of caffeinated beverages per day.
– Stop drinking fluids 15 minutes before a meal.
– Do not drink fluids with your meal as this quickly flushes food through your stomach.
– Resume drinking liquids 30 to 60 minutes after your meal.
– Look at your pee – if you are properly hydrated, it should be light yellow.
2. Supplement with micronutrients. Bariatric surgery can impact your body’s ability to absorb certain vitamins and minerals, making supplementation essential for preventing nutrient deficiencies. Common supplements for bariatric patients may include vitamin D, calcium, iron, B vitamins, and zinc. Some bariatric patients may require liquid supplements during the first 3-6 months after surgery, which can be added to water or protein shakes.
3. Eat enough fiber. Adequate fiber intake is important for digestive health and regularity, but it can be challenging for bariatric patients, especially during the early stages of recovery when the diet is restricted to liquids or soft foods. Incorporate fiber-rich foods such as cooked vegetables, fruits without skin, and whole grains into your diet as tolerated. You may also consider adding a soluble fiber supplement to help meet your fiber needs.
4. Try mindful eating. Practicing mindful eating techniques can help you develop a healthy relationship with food, promote satiety, and prevent overeating. Take your time to chew your food thoroughly, savoring each bite and paying attention to hunger and fullness cues. Avoid distractions such as watching TV or using electronic devices while eating to stay present and mindful of your meal.
5. Balance your macronutrient intake. While eating enough protein is the primary focus post-bariatric surgery, it is essential to maintain a balanced intake of carbohydrates and fats as well. Choose nutrient-dense carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and opt for healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Balancing your macronutrient intake can support energy levels, mood, and recovery.
Finally, it is important to take things one day at a time, as recovering from bariatric surgery can often feel overwhelming and stressful. It may even be helpful to set reminders for meal times and supplements so you can maintain consistency with your nutrition habits. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs and goals.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. drink wholesome is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
