What protein bars are good AND ok for soft food stage? There are days that I'm so busy and not home to eat. Like today. I forgot a protein shake and ended up getting chili from Wendy's for lunch. I would like more options that aren't fast food. Thanks!

I don't think protein bars would count. I think I ate a lot of things like cheese sticks, hummus, cottage cheese, hummus - although it's been several years so I can't really remember - someone not as far out may be able to suggest some options

EDITED to add this that I just found on the Mayo Clinic's site. But your clinic may have guidelines as well..

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/gastric-bypass-surgery/in-depth/gastric-bypass-diet/art-20048472

Edited June 8, 20233 yr by catwoman7

Plans are different but I wasn’t allowed protein bars until I reached goal. (I eat them pretty regularly now to ensue I get the extra protein I need in.) In a pinch they’re possibly okay - check the sugar & artificial sweeteners & protein content though as many are no more than candy bars.

Maybe keep a packet of instant soup in your bag & order a hot tea with the tea bag on the side at a cafe & make up the soup. Or grab a yoghurt from store. Check with your team for options for those never ending busy days.

Once you get to the eat all stage, Amazons own Amfit bars are great. Low cal, low cost and high protein. I always carry one in my bag. For you, just now I would recommend thick soups and protein yogurts.

You're probably going to have a much easier time sticking with shakes or liquids during this phase than bars. Most of them are pretty chewy. I do know that there are some protein puddings out there if you're sick of drinking things, but I would probably hold off on bars for a while.

I'll be on regular food next Friday, the 16th. I feel I'm way past just liquids, pudding and yogurt.

Find a soft one or look online for a recipe and make your own. You know your body better than anyone else. I have been following you and you’re quite sensible.

21 minutes ago, Gabbie-1 said:

Find a soft one or look online for a recipe and make your own. You know your body better than anyone else. I have been following you and you’re quite sensible.

That's a good idea. I was wanting something I can throw in my bag for emergencies or a super busy day that is shelf stable. Looks like I may have some research to do.

12 hours ago, summerseeker said:

Once you get to the eat all stage, Amazons own Amfit bars are great. Low cal, low cost and high Protein. I always carry one in my bag. For you, just now I would recommend thick Soups and protein yogurts.

Unless I’m wrong, it appears Amfit bars are available in UK, not US. If someone has a US source for these, please let us know. I’d love to try them.

I don't eat bars of any kind any more. If I'm really stuck for food I prefer to find wholefoods, even if not what I was planning, and you can always find something appropriate to your stage after surgery. Cheese - babybels/individual cheese portions - nuts (anything) - seeds at a pinch. Honestly OP, the chilli you ate is probably just as nutritious or more as the bar you didn't!

Check this out

https://www.bariatricfoodcoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pureed-Diet-Meal-Plan-1.pdf