Importance of Protein
Protein is one of the most important nutrients for the body after weight loss surgery. Most patients, right after surgery need 60-80 grams of protein a day. That’s just a little more than two protein shakes. After the patient transitions to a more solid diet, the goal is 80-100 grams of protein each day. To meet this goal, a patient might eat: Breakfast: 1 egg AM Snack: Greek Yogurt Lunch: 3 oz of fish PM Snack: protein shake Dinner: 3 oz of chicken It is essential to get protein at every meal after surgery . If meals are skipped, or protein is not included, then the body’s needs are not met. Protein is a part of every cell in our body, and is required to make all new cells. Without protein, our body can’t create new hormones, muscle, tissue, cartilage, cells that fight disease, or cells that transport oxygen. Our hair and nails are made mostly of protein. When our bodies have a protein deficiency, hair ...