Finding the right protein supplement to meet your nutritional needs

Karen Buzby, RD, LDN, member of the Penn Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery team, explains how to find the right protein supplement.

Protein is an essential dietary nutrient. It builds tissue and regulates various bodily processes necessary for good health. After weight-loss surgery, all patients follow a liquid diet for two weeks. It is important to include adequate protein intake in the post-surgical diet to facilitate recovery. That is why patients are encouraged to find a preferred protein drink before surgery to ensure optimal nutrition and safe weight loss in the recovery stage.

You can find protein supplements at local supermarkets, pharmacies or specialty nutrition stores. There are a variety of choices and these tips can help you find your favorite, nutritious protein supplement:

• Read the ingredients. Complete protein products containing whey, casein or soy provide more benefit than products that are mixed with less nutritious ingredients, such as collagen.


• Determine if you prefer a powder or liquid protein supplement. There are pros and cons to each type of supplement. Powder products are mixed with eight ounces of water, low-fat milk or another low-calorie liquid to produce a beverage with the recommended concentration of protein. Liquid products come premixed and some have screw tops for easy storage after opening.


• Sample a small quantity of the protein supplement. Purchase a single-serving to taste test before committing to a full container or case of the product.


• Make sure the products are low in fat and sugar. The concentration of protein, fat and carbohydrates varies from product to product. It is important to select a product that is low in fat, calories and carbohydrates. Make sure the product contains 15 grams or less of sugar per serving. Keep in mind that a typical protein drink contains 150 to 200 calories per 8 ounce serving.


• Check the expiration date. Like all food, protein drinks have a limited shelf life. Do not use products that have expired.

Please refer to the “Step-by-Step Diet Guidelines following Weight Loss Surgery” in your diet instruction booklet for a detailed list of recommended protein supplements.

- Karen Buzby, RD, LDN