Gastric Bypass and Lap-Band patients need to get in their protein, which can be a difficult task without the help of protein heavy shakes and foods.

Here are some of our favorite proteins:

The Liquids

No Mixing, clear and refreshing, these liquids are good to carry with you throughout the day.

Isopure Zero Carb, 20 oz. Blue Raspberry
Isopure Zero Carb, 20 oz. Pineapple Orange Banana
These also come in other flavors like Passion Fruit, Alpine Punch, Grape Frost, Mango Peach, Apple Melon and Icy Orange.

Can’t get in 20 ounces of fluid? There’s always the 3 oz. shots.

IDS New Whey 42g Protein Variety 36-pack
I’m not a fan of their thicker consistency, although mom likes them, but there is no question they are convenient. They fit in your purse or glove compartment and get you about half of your daily proteins (everyone’s protein needs vary).

The Powders

Powders are a good source of protein on the go. Just add water or milk and you’ve got a thin shake. Blend in some ice for something a little thicker. You can also experiment with fruits, yogurts and sugar free syrups to get some interesting flavors. See my “Shakes” category for some good recipes.

We LOVE the Isopure brand. Other “lactose free” powders have flared up my lactose intolerance but Isopure doesn’t. It has the most proteins per serving than any other low sugar/carb powder I’ve seen out there so far and, when it’s difficult getting in enough protein, that will come in handy.

Isopure Vanilla Powder
Vanilla is great on its own but its even better as a base for other mix and match flavors.

Isopure Chocolate Powder
Chocolate lovers look out. I’m not a chocolate lovin’ gal but this stuff is a keeper. Great for chocolate peanut butter shakes. MMMmmm!!!

Isopure Powders also come in Cookies & Cream, Alpine Punch, Pineapple Orange & Banana, Mango Peach, Apple Melon and Strawberries & Cream.

The Foods

Who wants to be drinking their protein all day when there are some delicious high protein/low sugar and carb foods now available? Here are some of our favorites.

Protein Bars – Again avoid those high in carbs and sugars. There are so many protein bars to choose from I’m still trying them all.

My current favorites are the Worldwide Pure Protein Bars. There isn’t a type so far that I don’t like.

Nuts – While some can’t process nuts until a few months out after surgery, I do just fine with them and actually prefer them to snack on. Although nuts contain some of the better-for-you fats, there is still a risk of dumping syndrome if you eat too much. I currently enjoy the Blue Diamond Almonds in Vanilla, Sea Salt and Cinnamon Brown Sugar. They are easy to carry with you and have ounce lines on the side so you know you aren’t eating too much.

Beef Jerky – I learned the hard way that red meats and I don’t mix at the moment but I still suggest beef (or in my case turkey) jerky.  High protein, lean fat… the best stuff ever invented. Keep an eye on sugars as some jerky is glazed with brown sugar – like most teriyaki flavored jerky.

***Some people can have jerky while others can’t so proceed with caution. Make sure you chew it well.