Hey everyone! I just got my pre-op tests done and am still on-course for a July 31st sleeve. I'm trying to get my new diet stuff lined up and wanted to see if anyone has recommendations on Protein powder or other liquid items. Is it OK if they are sweetened? Does it matter if it's real or artificial sweetener? I'm not diabetic if that matters. Also, can anyone recommend anything else in particular that might make the liquid phase easier? I'm open to all suggestions! I really love food so I want to try to make the liquid phase as tolerable as possible with high-quality/tasty products!

Hi John, That's a tough question because everyone's tastes are so different. I bought Swanson chicken Stock, and lots of premixed Protein drinks. Before surgery I loved Atkins shakes and had one every morning for Breakfast. After surgery they turned my stomach and were way too sweet. Everything disagreed with me. I had a week of nausea and the only thing that agreed with me was watered down mashed potatoes. Even they weren't in the liquid stage, I made them so thin I could drink them. Some people like the protein powders that you mix into your broth. There is also a high protein Water called Isopure zero carb you can buy at GNC. I didn't like it because it was really sweet. Don't buy too much before surgery because your taste will change after surgery. V8 settled very good in my tummy. Good luck and sorry I didn't have too many ideas.

I started using EAS carb control chocolate before surgery and post-op found Premier Protein chocolate. I've tried Muscle Milk chocolate, but Premier has been my favorite.

Before surgery I like premier protein, EAS and pure protein but boy after surgery the pre made drinks made me sick way to sweet. I did find Unjury chocolate splendor powder after surgery and that is my go to now. In my liquid stage I had sugar free Popsicles, cream of broccoli soup (no chunks), decaf tea and coffee, applesauce and yogurt. I also got some crystal light, mio to flavor my water. This helped me get down my fluids easier as it didn't feel like I was always drinking water.

I would recommend not stocking up on anything pre-op other than samples, since your tastes and tolerances may very well change. I'm lazy so will link to an earlier post I made on where to buy Protein powder samples:

http://www.bariatricpal.com/topic/307990-need-names-of-good-protein-powder/?p=3476426

As far as sweeteners go -- Protein shakes made with sugar are too high calorie and high carb for my plan, so I stick with shakes sweetened with stevia or with artificial sweeteners.