Importance of Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient of the body. Eating enough protein is especially important after bariatric surgery to help preserve lean muscle mass and promote healing. It also increases satiety, which helps patients feel full longer and makes them less likely to over eat. Bariatric patients should always eat the protein portion of their meal first.
Of course, all protein sources are not created equal. Post bariatric patients need to make sure that they pick lean meats, fish and low fat dairy products as their source of protein to encourage weight loss.
Some bariatric patients have problems eating certain foods like chicken or meat. If that is the case, it is recommended that patients supplement with protein powders, shakes or bars. Tofu is another good source of protein that is easy to digest and is not difficult to eat after bariatric surgery

Published on April 29, 2011 by Michael Russo

By Smart Dimensions