Did you know that protein is considered the building block of cells? It’s true! Proteins are essential components of every cell in the body, providing structural support and performing various functions necessary for cellular operations.1 Your body needs protein to maintain muscle, facilitate cell repair, and support the creation of new cells within the body.
According to extensive research over the past two decades, numerous studies consistently indicate that consuming higher protein intake can significantly contribute to successful weight loss and maintenance by promoting satiety, preserving lean muscle mass, and regulating appetite hormones.2 This will help make you feel fuller for longer and potentially reduce overall calorie intake.
How Much Protein Do Bariatric Patient’s Need?
Many studies have shown that consuming 25-30 grams of protein per meal results in greater fat loss, decreased appetite, and improved cardiometabolic risk factors.3 As a bariatric patient, you may have had a difficult time eating 2–4-ounce portions initially after surgery. Usually by around 3-6 months after surgery, you will find that you are comfortably able to eat more. Our clinic advises that patients consume 4 ounce portions, 3 meals a day, totaling 60-90 grams of protein per day. Start low and work your way up to 90 grams.
Protein Food Choices
• Lean meats
• Greek yogurt
• Lentils
• Tofu
• Cottage cheese
• Eggs/egg whites
• Edamame
• Halibut
• Tuna
• Salmon
• Beans
• Nuts
Your primary protein source should contain a higher percentage of protein compared to other nutrients like carbohydrates or fats. We also advise to eat your protein first because it can hep you feel full, control blood sugar, and give you more energy. Follow then with your veggies, sticking to the 70/30 rule you learned at our pre-surgery classes prior to your bariatric surgery.
If you feel you need help getting in enough protein or enough nutrients after surgery, please give our office a call at (801) 268-3800 to schedule an appointment with one of our nutritionists.
Links to related articles:
The Positives of Protein
The Importance of Protein
Pre-Op Tips for Bariatric Surgery
www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124
Resources
- Andrew LePelusa, Ravi Kaushik; “Physiology, Proteins”, National Library of Medicine, Nov. 24, 2022; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555990/
- Jaecheol Moon, Gwanpyo Koh; “Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss”, 2020 Jul 23; National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7539343/
- Chiao-Nan Chen, Kuo-Jen Hsu, Kuei-Yu Chien, Jeu-Jung Chen; “Effects of Combined High-Protein Diet and Exercise Intervention on Cardiometabolic Health in Middle-Aged Obese Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial”, 2021 Aug 16; National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8415300/