High Protein Recipes for Bariatric Patients

According to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity and its related conditions. It also is considered an effective treatment for sleep apnea, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and liver disease. Common types of bariatric surgery include gastric banding and gastric bypass. After bariatric surgery, patients must take care in eating the proper diet to ensure maximum nutrition.

Post-Bariatric Recipes

Because their stomach capacities are reduced, bariatric patients must gain many nutrients from the foods they do eat. Eating adequate amounts of protein is critical, as the body can't store it yet needs a constant supply to repair and replace worn or damaged tissues. Therefore, at least 60 grams of protein should be consumed each day to meet the body's requirements.

Lean sources of high-protein foods are recommended at the beginning of each meal. Such sources include lean poultry or fish, eggs or low-fat cheese.

Because high-protein recipes are so important for bariatric patients, a variety of cookbooks and websites are available for these patients. Many recipes have been tested and adjusted by patients, doctors or nutritionists.

High-protein recipes for bariatric patients focus on providing maximum protein in small portions. Therefore, many recipes will call for minute amounts of carbohydrate "fillers" such as crusts, rice, pasta and breads. Common bariatric recipes include crustless quiches and pizzas, hearty soups, seasoned grilled lean meat recipes, high-protein sauces or toppings, and items that contain only a little starch, which can fill the stomach rapidly.

Items that are generally not found in bariatric recipes include sandwiches (unless they are open-faced or wrapped in lettuce leaves), pasta, deep dish pizzas and rice casseroles. Instead of heavy crusts or breads, recipes often call for foods wrapped in egg roll wrappers or phyllo dough. Additionally, grain items are often used to top foods. These items include baked tortilla strips, croutons and meats rolled in bread crumb mixtures.

While high-protein supplements are available, they are not always recommended for bariatric patients. Those who have elected to have the surgery are encouraged to find foods that are high in essential nutrients, since the amount of food consumed is relatively small.