Protein Pacing
Why It Matters After Bariatric Surgery

Why Is Protein Pacing Important?
After surgery, your body needs protein to:
- Heal properly
- Preserve muscle while losing fat
- Feel full longer and reduce cravings
- Keep your metabolism healthy
Studies show that patients who eat less than 60 grams of protein per day can lose more muscle, which can slow down your metabolism and energy levels.
Protein pacing also works well when combined with exercise—especially strength training. Research shows this combo can:
- Reduce belly fat
- Improve blood sugar levels
- Boost strength and endurance
Easy Tips to Try Protein Pacing
Here’s how you can add protein pacing into your routine:
- Eat protein every 3–4 hours: Include it in all your meals and snacks.
- Choose high-quality sources: Lean meats, eggs, Greek yogurt, protein shakes, tofu, legumes, and other plant-based proteins.
- Move your body: Even light resistance training can help your body use protein better to build and keep muscle.
- Track your intake: Use a food log or app to make sure you’re hitting your protein goals every day.
Final Thoughts
Protein pacing is a simple, powerful way to stay on track after weight loss surgery. By spreading your protein throughout the day, you’ll help your body recover, maintain lean muscle, and reach your health goals more effectively.
If you’re unsure where to start, talk to your bariatric nutritionist—they can help you create a personalized plan that fits your lifestyle!
After bariatric surgery, your body goes through a lot of changes—especially in how it processes food. One of the most important things to focus on during recovery is getting enough protein. But it’s not just about how much protein you eat—when and how you eat it matters too. That’s where protein pacing comes in.
What Is Protein Pacing?
Protein pacing means spreading your protein intake evenly across the day, rather than eating most of it in one big meal. So instead of having a small breakfast and a huge protein-packed dinner, you would aim to include some protein in every meal and snack.
Most bariatric experts recommend 4 to 6 small meals a day, each with 20–30 grams of high-quality protein.
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