One of the biggest challenges for patients who've had weight loss surgery (Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve and LAP-BAND) is getting enough protein without getting too many calories. While there are many good brands of protein bars and shakes out there, some patients have a hard time finding protein supplement that they enjoy. If this sounds like you, (or even if you just want to try something new), have a look at these simple tips and recipes to help boost the flavor of your protein supplement.
Flavor-Boosting Protein Tips
- Use vanilla, almond or coconut extract to add flavor to store-bought protein shakes and to create your own custom flavors.
- Freeze fat-free milk in ice cube trays to use in smoothies instead of plain ice. Milk adds protein and gives you a more ice cream-like consistency without added fat.
- Blend non-fat Greek yogurt with your smoothie to add creaminess and extra protein to shakes.
- If you can’t stand the taste of whey protein powder, try soy protein isolate powder. It’s virtually flavorless and is less likely to clump than the whey powder.
High-Protein Fruit Punch
In a blender mix:
- 6 ounces sugar-free powdered fruit drink (such a Crystal Light)
- 2 scoops (1 ounce) protein powder
- 4 ice cubes
Nutritional Facts: 110 calories; Protein: 20 grams; Carbs: 4 grams; Fat: 2 grams
Creamy Orange Shake
In a blender mix:
- 1 cup fat-free milk
- 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder
- 1 scoop sugar-free orange powder drink (such as Crystal Light)
- 4 ice cubes
High-Protein Milk
In a blender mix:
- 1 cup skim milk
- 2 scoops (1 ounce) whey protein powder
- Sugar substitute of choice
- Vanilla flavoring
Variation: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to blender before mixing.
Nutritional Facts: 190 calories; Protein: 28 grams; Fat: 2 grams; Fiber: 1 gram
Need a break from the shake? For a nice change of pace, try this easy recipe for high-protein soup that you can drink like a broth straight from a mug. To use as a base for a more hearty soup, simply sauté fresh veggies such as diced carrots or celery in a teaspoon of olive oil before adding the rest of the ingredients. Then toss in some cooked shredded chicken for a complete meal.
High-Protein Cream Soup
Mix together in a sauce pot over low heat:
- 1 tsp. chicken or beef bouillon plus one cup water (or 1 can low-sodium broth – omit water if using canned broth)
- 1/3 cup nonfat dry milk
- 3 tablespoons protein powder
Heat till warm and powders and bouillon are dissolved.
Nutritional Facts: 200 calories; Protein: 24 grams; Fat: 2 grams; Carbs: 20 grams
About New Jersey Bariatric Center
The New Jersey Bariatric Center helps patients achieve long-term weight loss success through the most advanced bariatric surgery procedures, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, LAP-BAND and REALIZE Band procedures. Led by the team of Dr. Ajay Goyal, Dr. Glenn Forrester, Dr. Angela Jack and Dr. Leigh Montes, the New Jersey Bariatric Center’s approach to patient care has resulted in zero mortalities and a complication rate that is lower than the national average.New Jersey Bariatric Center serves patients from all over the state of New Jersey and New York, including Union County, Essex County, Hudson County, Bergen County, Morris County, Somerset County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Staten Island, NY, Bronx, NY, New York City, Brooklyn, NY.
