How to Choose Protein Powder for Liver Shrink Diet

Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)

(Source: Health Line)

Oxford Bariatric Service says that it is necessary to shrink the size of one’s liver before going in for any bariatric procedure.  This is to avoid extra difficulty during the surgery. ^[1]Oxford University Hospitals. NHS Trust. “Pre-Bariatric Surgery Diet: Information for Patients” 27 July 2018.
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Protein powder for a liver-shrink diet is a good option. The shakes are tasty as well as nutritious. A pre-op calorie-free liquid diet is given for this.

Protein supplements for the liver shrink diet phase are indispensable to achieve the desired effect. ^[2]CAMBI, Maria Paula Carlini, and Giorgio Alfredo Pedroso BARETTA. “Bariatric Diet Guide: Plate Model Template for Bariatric Surgery Patients.” Arquivos Brasileiros de Cirurgia Digestive: ABCD2 (2018): e1375. PMC. Web. 27 July 2018.
View in Article Since the patient is on a liquid diet before the surgery, protein powders become the primary source of protein.

Pre-op Bariatric Liver Shrink Diet Phase: Protein Powder Options

• Premier Protein
• Muscle Milk
• Injury (they have some unflavored options and even chicken soup flavor)
• Orgain Protein
• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Avoid buying protein powders with high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). That can have harmful effects on the blood lipids as it increases the triglyceride levels in one’s body. It also puts the person at a higher risk of heart trouble. ^[3]Katherine Zeratsky. Mayo Clinic. “What is high-fructose corn syrup? What are the health concerns?” 27 July 2018.
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Tips on Choosing Protein Powder for Pre-Op Bariatric Surgery Diet

• When you pick a protein powder, look for a whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. (Alternatively, soy protein isolate/concentrate)
• In general, it is good to have a variety of protein drinks and powders.
• Avoid buying too much of anything in bulk.
• Match the protein powder to the requirement.
• Cleveland Clinic has provided some basic guidelines about choosing protein powders. For instance, people who suffer from kidney disease aren’t able to tolerate a lot of protein. Those with irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance should go with protein powders that are void of lactose sugars or artificial sweeteners. ^[4]Alyssa Tyler, Cleveland Clinic. “7 Tips for Choosing the Best Protein Powder for You” 27 July 2018.
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There are many unsweetened protein drink options to choose from. These can be added to cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, soup/stews, and casseroles as well.

References

1. Oxford University Hospitals. NHS Trust. “Pre-Bariatric Surgery Diet: Information for Patients” 27 July 2018.
2. CAMBI, Maria Paula Carlini, and Giorgio Alfredo Pedroso BARETTA. “
3. “Bariatric Diet Guide: Plate Model Template for Bariatric Surgery Patients.” Arquivos Brasileiros de Cirurgia Digestive: ABCD2 (2018): e1375. PMC. Web. 27 July 2018.
4. Katherine Zeratsky. Mayo Clinic. “What is high-fructose corn syrup? What are the health concerns?” 27 July 2018.
5. Alyssa Tyler, Cleveland Clinic. “7 Tips for Choosing the Best Protein Powder for You” 27 July 2018.

This Post Addresses

• Which type of protein powder is the best?
• What are the types of protein powders available?
• Side effects of whey protein.
• What are some foods high in protein?