5 Tips to Get More Protein

Protein is an important macronutrient that benefits your body by building muscle, regulating hormones, and more. Adequate protein intake is also key for successful weight loss. Protein helps you feel full for longer, and getting enough protein can help you stick to a healthier diet. Protein is especially important for bariatric patients as they recover from surgery, build lean muscle, and maintain their weight loss. Here are our tips for getting more protein in your diet:

1. Start the Day With a Shake

Eating a high-protein breakfast can start your day off right by setting you up to meet your protein goals for the day. Find a protein powder supplement that you like and try our recipes for a vanilla chai protein shake, a high-protein fruit smoothie, or treat yourself to a pumpkin pie protein shake.

2. Don’t Miss a Protein Opportunity

Plan to include protein with each meal and snack. If you’re craving fruit, try having low fat cheese alongside grapes. If you pack a salad for lunch, add leftover chicken or a sliced hard boiled egg to increase the protein. Use our free meal planning template to stay on top of your protein intake.

3. Try Plant Based Proteins

If you are bored with chicken or concerned about eating too much meat, there are many plant based sources of protein to try, such as lentils, beans, nuts, and tofu. Try our recipe for no-bake energy balls for a boost of plant-based protein on the go or whip up hummus dip to add protein to a veggie snack.

4. Make Smart Swaps

Some familiar foods can be traded in for protein-rich alternatives, such as greek yogurt instead of traditional yogurt. Another smart move is to choose leaner cuts of meat, which typically have more protein than fatty cuts. Trade in croutons for protein-packed nuts on a salad.

5. Try Protein Water

Staying hydrated is just as important as keeping up your protein intake, so why not do both at once? Protein enhanced water is a refreshing and convenient way to stay hydrated while contributing to your daily protein intake. Pick up a bottle at the St. Louis Bariatrics office.

We’re Here for You

Dr. Snow and the team at St. Louis Bariatrics are dedicated to helping patients meet their health goals and maintain weight loss success. Contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with our registered dietitian to discuss your protein intake or post-bariatric diet.