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Low Protein As a Complication of Gastric Bypass

With thousands of overweight Americans choosing gastric bypass surgery each year, it is important to know the risks and potential problems following the procedure. Patients commonly experience protein deficiency following surgery. Here are a few tips to help avoid this problem.

  1. Cause of Protein Deficiency

    • Gastric bypass surgery reduces the stomach pouch to the size of an egg. The diet must be adjusted to make sure that your body gets the right amount of nutrients and vitamins it needs, but in much smaller proportions. By sticking to a strict post-surgery diet, your body will recover from surgery more quickly.

    Diet

    • A post-surgery diet will be very strict in the types of food allowed. The first few days after surgery, you are restricted to fluids only. After a few days, pureed foods will be added to your diet. Try turkey, tuna and salmon, which are all very high in protein. Chicken is also tasty but add a small bit of broth to keep it moist. It is important to remember not to drink beverages with your meal as they can keep the body from digesting protein. And stay away from sugar, carbonated beverages and foods high in fat.

    Back to Solid Foods

    • After a few weeks, most patients are ready to start trying solid food. Remember to eat and chew slowly and stop eating before you are full to avoid digestion problems. A few good sources of protein to start with include scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, almonds and beans. Edamame, or soybeans, are an excellent source of protein and low in saturated fats.

    Protein Supplements

    • In addition to a diet high in protein, some patients must also take protein supplements to help their bodies after surgery. Physicians may prescribe vitamins to help, but check your local pharmacy for over-the-counter protein supplements. If solid food is still a problem, there are many protein shake mixes on the market.

    Working With Your Team

    • Success after weight loss surgery not only depends on following a healthy diet but working with the post-surgery team. Follow their instructions regarding diet and exercise, take your supplements, if prescribed, and keep your lab appointments and doctor's office appointments. Your doctor will be able to identify, diagnose and treat any problems following surgery.

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