Bariatric surgery is a type of medical procedure that’s recommended when a person hasn’t managed to lose weight with other methods like exercise and healthier diet. It helps obese individuals lose surplus weight and maintain a new, healthier one. After this procedure, the patients are advised to follow a strict diet plan due to the changes in the digestive system.

Protein-rich foods and protein supplements like the potent bariatric advantage vitamins are often consumed post-surgery. They’re necessary to help with the side effects, encourage healing of wounds and the burning of fat, as well as to compensate for the  protein that’s been lost in the complex procedure. Below, learn more about the effects of bariatric surgery, including what changes to expect and info about the importance of adding protein to your diet after the procedure! 

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#Speeds up the healing of wounds 

Protein is important for proper healing after bariatric surgery. Most people need to drink more than the standard 8-ounce glass of milk per day while recovering from the surgery and maintain a good nutrition. Protein also helps with the person’s weight loss and muscle recovery, which is important for those who’ve undergone a major procedure like this one. 

The best way to get protein in your diet post-surgery might be by consuming whey protein shakes or using powdered meal replacements. This can help you keep up on your protein intake without having to eat too much at once or force yourself into consuming foods that may not agree with your stomach yet. Protein intake should be increased gradually if tolerated well by the patient, but no more than 1 gram per kilogram of body weight per day. Nutritious sources of protein include: lean meats, eggs, fish, soy products (tofu), and legumes. 

#To burn fat instead of muscle 

Protein is essential  for a healthy weight loss, including that happening after this procedure. Namely, it helps your body burn fat instead of muscle which can lead to faster and healthier results. When you’ve undergone bariatric surgery, it's important to know how much protein your new stomach can handle. Moreover, the amount of calories you’ll intake will lower drastically. And, our bodies are known to preserve fat while burning muscle mass for energy. 

By supplying your body with enough protein, you’ll help spare the muscles and this will force the metabolism to burn fat for energy instead! The amount of protein in each meal varies based on the type of bariatric procedure and the doctor’s recommendations, although a general rule for post-surgery patients is not more than 30 grams per day. 

#Protein supports our metabolism 

Protein is known to provide the body with pivotal amino acids which are needed for the growth and repair of body tissues, including muscle tissue. It also supports metabolic functions like maintaining the production of enzymes in the liver and regulation of blood sugar levels through insulin secretion from the pancreas. By helping you build muscle, protein boosts your metabolism and motivates the body to burn more fat, even when you’re resting. 

The level of dietary protein intake should be guided by your physician, but it usually ranges between 50g-150g per day with higher intakes being recommended when you’re recovering from an injury, illness or a medical procedure. 

#Prolongs your satiety 

According to studies, diets rich in protein prolong satiety and lower hunger when compared to diets high in fat or high in carbs. Although it can be difficult to eat during the couple of first days after this surgery, it’s important to build a habit of consuming more protein. 

Protein is amazing at keeping us full longer and thus, decreases our risk of snacking unhealthy snacks or reaching for unhealthy meals. Protein after bariatric surgery is your best way to achieve successful weight loss and weight management. The good news is that there are so many delicious ways to incorporate protein into your diet like low-fat yogurt with berries for breakfast or scrambled eggs with veggies for lunch. You can also consult your physician for helpful protein supplements, including protein shakes, to aid your weight loss journey after this procedure. 

#Helps keep your skin, hair, bones and nails healthy

Getting enough protein through your post-bariatric diet is important for healthy hair, nails and bones. Some doctors may recommend using protein supplements to help with the healing process while others will suggest diet changes in order to get enough protein. The amount of protein that you’ll need depends on your weight and muscle mass before the surgery. Protein plays an important role in maintaining overall health by providing the body with essential amino acids necessary for bone growth, muscle repair and tissue development. What’s more, to keep the hair healthy, you’ll need to up your protein intake- it helps boost the production of keratin that keeps it strong and shiny. Our nails need keratin too so that they can grow strong rather than weak.

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Final Thoughts

After a bariatric surgery, it’s important to follow a doctor-recommended diet and up your protein intake to encourage healing and weight loss. Protein not only helps with healing, but also encourages fullness and prevents overeating. Being the major structural component in all of our cells, it’s no wonder doctors emphasize the importance of a protein-rich diet after this complex procedure!