The Importance of Protein After Bariatric Surgery

Protein from the Greek word prota meaning “of primary importance”; It is one of the basic building blocks of our body. Proteins found in muscle, bone, hair, skin and many tissues have many chemical functions necessary for life.

For this reason, it is necessary to get enough protein every day. The daily protein requirement varies according to the person’s weight, age and disease status. The World Health Organization recommends that a healthy person get an average of 0.8-1 gram of protein per kilogram.

After bariatric surgery (such as Gastric Sleeve Surgery), the protein requirement varies according to the type of surgery. Average protein consumption after surgery varies between 1-1.5 grams per kilogram.

Since people’s food intake is limited after the surgery and they have to eat very low calories, the protein taken with food cannot meet the daily need.

If the daily amount of protein is not enough, people may experience muscle loss and protein malnutrition. For this reason, after bariatric surgery, people should provide the amount of protein they need daily with additional protein supplements (protein powder suitable for surgery).

In addition to additional proteins, the diet should be supported with protein-rich foods.

Protein-Rich Foods Suitable for Bariatric Surgery;

lactose-free milk
Buttermilk
Kefir
Yogurt
Meat/chicken/fish

The consumption of these foods varies depending on the postoperative period. In addition, since nutrient intake will be limited, a dietitian should be consulted to meet the daily protein intake.

Animal and Plant Proteins

If you are not vegetarian, choice for more animal protein. Although vegetable proteins provide adequate protein, they have more carbohydrates per serving than most animal proteins.

However, some nutrients that come with animal foods are not found in plant foods. For example, vitamin B12 comes from animal foods. Although vitamin D is found in plants, it is more beneficial to use it from animal foods. DHA omega-3 fatty acid is found especially in oily fish. Red meat is very rich in iron. Iron deficiency can be prevented by consuming red meat.

Also, most animal foods provide more protein per serving than plant-based foods. For this reason, the importance of each bite increases when it is taken into account that you are full quickly after bariatric surgery.