Are Protein Drinks Meal Substitutes?

Question

A co-worker asked me whether or not protein drinks count as meal substitutes. She is going to get a bypass surgery operation, and her doctor advised her to substitute two meals with a certain type of protein drink ... she tells me that she feels very hungry afterwards, and that a sugar-free jello thing would tie her over longer than those drinks.

I told her that protein drinks are primarily used for a boost of energy and to gain muscle mass (sometimes it's just mass :P). I drink protein drinks before working out for that purpose.

I couldn't tell her exactly why her doctor would tell her to sub two meals w/ protein drinks ... so I was wondering if y'all had any input. I assumed that her doctor was trying to get her used to small meals, since the size of her stomach is going to be drastically reduced, and that the drinks would provide nutrition she won't be able to get after the surgery.

Answer 1

ONLY if they contain all the added nutrients you would need in a normal balanced diet. You should always eat a healthy meal ever day and maintain at least 1200 calories to lower risk of cardio problems. Take care.

Answer 2

It could very well be, that the doctor is just getting her used to smaller meals. But in no way should those shakes substitute a meal. Her body probaly really needs some kind of glucose. I don't agree with bybass surgery. Your stomach was made to be the size that it is. The surgery makes you eat less anyhow. I think people just need to eat healthier and be patient.

Answer 3

There is a meal replacement shake that is balance and does not leave you feeling hungry. You can find them at www.newbodybalance.com