Hi all,

I'm just getting ready to leave on a long international trip and so thought I would share what I have found about traveling and managing Protein.

I found out that I can buy Protein powder that, if not the same, is comparable to what I am using here. So while I am packing a canister of powders?utm_source=BariatricPal&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=CommentLink" target="_ad" data-id="1" >unjury, I can buy more in the countries to which I am traveling. I posted questions regarding supplement stores in the TripAdvisor.com forums for the cities I am visiting and locals were happy to recommend stores.

Getting my protein during two solid days of flights is another challenge as I thought I would not be allowed to bring my 11 oz. ready-to-drink Premier shakes. I was happy to be wrong! The TSA will allow my Protein Shakes as medically necessary. I don't need a doctor note or anything, just to declare them as medically necessary and pack them separate for they will screened separately. So, I am taking six shakes for two days of travel.

I called the TSA to verify all this, and they were very nice (although definitely all business). They even offered a confirming email:

Travelers are not limited in the amount or volume of medically necessary food items and liquids they may bring through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening checkpoints. However, if these items exceed 3.4 ounces and are not contained in a single, quart-size, clear plastic, resealable bag, the passengers must declare the items to a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) for additional screening. TSA has established procedures that allow TSOs to screen medically exempt liquids, gels, and aerosols.

To prevent the spoilage of medically necessary food items, TSA recommends, if possible, that food is frozen, securely wrapped, or placed in a spill-proof container before carrying the items through the security checkpoint. Gel packs are permitted in accessible property for the purpose of cooling medically exempt items. Additionally, after clearing the security checkpoint, passengers may purchase ice from inside the secured areas of airports for cooling food items during flight.

We encourage all travelers to familiarize themselves with TSA’s Travel Tips prior to their trip. In addition, our Web site, www.tsa.gov, has information about prohibited and permitted items, the screening process and procedures, and guidance for special considerations that may assist in preparing for air travel.

If this is not the case when going through airport security, I will certainly report back!

So I am finally back at home. As posted above, I was able to take my ready to drink Protein shakes through security at DFW, but with a complete pat down and swabbing.

At London Heathrow, security wanted a doctor note, but since I didn't have one I just had to open a shake and drink it in front of them. They were very nice about it.

Protein powders were easy enough to find, but I did ask my question in advance on TripAdvisor forums, as we were visiting a country where we did not speak or read the native language.

I found it helpful to take my protein. Airline food can be too low in protein and way to many carbs for comfort. I'm pretty religious in my protein intake.

There are no foods I cannot tolerate, I am pleased to say! I was confronted with a lot of greasy foods but in moderation everything sat well (except once, one bite too many of a potato). I actually lost a pants size while on vacation, can't beat that!

I found that while most wait staff here in the USA are more accepting of my not finishing my food. I got a lot of questions about not liking my food when I didn't finish it, while in Hungary, England and Scotland. Replying "Everything was great, I am just full" didn't work as well abroad. One time, my husband told the waiter that I had already eaten, because they were determined to bring me something else more to my liking (since I didn't finish much of my entree, which was delicious).

Thanks for that Amanda! Where did you visit in Scotland, if you don't mind me asking?

We're going there in December and I'm debating whether to try to buy Protein powder/drinks there or maybe ship some fave powder on ahead to my mother-in-law's house. I'll probably be newly sleeved (hopefully having surgery next month!)

And I'll definitely be sure to get my surgeon to write me a letter to have for security here and in the UK. Glad your trip seemed to be pretty hitch-free!

In Scotland, we visited Glasgow. There was plenty of good food to be had, but most of it was a high in fat.

Prior to Glasgow, we spent 12 days in Sheffield, England. Again, plenty of good food, but since we were there so long we figured out the healthier options for restaurants.

If you just want to pick up a Protein snack, be sure to check out Marks & Spencer food halls. They have a nice selection of cheeses in ~ 1 oz servings, and also ready-made salads with chicken, etc. While on the go, look for M&S Simply Food (at train stations, etc.) which is the same chain and a fantastic selection of foods on the go. I am not a fan of the chain restaurants, but I don't always want to sit in a restaurant and sometimes a little snack from M&S was perfect to take back to our hotel room, or to take on the train.

Oh, and I finally discovered Pimm's! What a refreshing cocktail!

I love M&S and forgot about them having their little shops in the train stations. Excellent suggestion, thanks! I know I'll be able to find some healthy foods at Tesco too, just need to steer clear of all of my calorie-laden favorites there as well.

And I love Pimm's too!

I love M&S and forgot about them having their little shops in the train stations. Excellent suggestion, thanks! I know I'll be able to find some healthy foods at Tesco too, just need to steer clear of all of my calorie-laden favorites there as well.

And I love Pimm's too!

Where are you visiting?

OMG, Pimm's was so good. Is it a salad or is it a cocktail? :wub: I am going to go to the liquor store today to make Pimm's lemonade here at home.

We're going for two weeks Dec 22-Jan 5. We'll be up north, near Inverness, but may take the train down to Glasgow or Edinburgh for a day. My husband is a Scottish immigrant and his mum and brother still live in the UK, so we visit every couple of years. Unfortunately, twice this year because my father-in-law passed away in April.

I've never actually been to Glasgow, but really want to visit and check out some of the art galleries (and maybe some shopping!)

Sounds like you had a long, fun trip!

It was a great trip. I do love the trains there. We have no public transport where we live.

I hope you have a great trip too!