Research shows that whey helps reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer, hypertension, and heart disease.  It boosts your immune system and increases potent antioxidants in the body.  

Components in whey protein help promote an appetite-suppressing hormone and also helps increase your serotonin levels, which fend off depression and emotional eating.

Whey has also been shown to reduce dental plaque and cavities.  I’ll go for that!

The word protein comes from a Greek root meaning “of first importance”. 

Protein is the basic material of life and constitutes three-fourth of our body tissue.  Protein builds tissue and muscle.   It helps keep blood sugar/insulin levels steady which keep away those cravings and helps stop hunger and supports your systems detoxification process.

Did you know that egg yolks contain sulfur-bearing amino acids that help your liver metabolize fats?  Good to know!  I just recently learned that whey protein is an energizer to your body and a cholesterol zapper.

Whey proteins use as a medical food can be traced as far back as 400 BC, to the time of Hippocrates.

I have had quite a few inquires lately about protein, so I thought it might be helpful to share some information.   I’ll break it up into several posts.

Protein supplements will be an important part of your weight loss program, so experiment with protein before surgery to find some that you really like. Even though you may find that your taste may change, at least you will have a head start. 

It may take a little getting used to, but since protein is for the long haul, (that is, during the weight loss phase) so keep trying.  I have found that experimenting with flavors in extracts and ingredients is fun and challenging.

As time goes by the amount of supplemental protein will lessen as you begin to eat more real food protein, (Starting around 6 months, depending on your surgeon or nutritionist), but remember your body’s need for protein will always be important. After you have graduated from weight loss to maintaining, you will no longer need protein supplements, (make sure your surgeon releases you from supplements) you will be eating solid "real food" proteins.  Again, protein, even in real solid foods will always be an important part of your new lifestyle, this is for the long haul. 

Getting your protein level  checked is an important part of your post-op care. It has been found that the most successful weight loss patients are those who are serious about protein and consider it a part of there long-term routine.

Pre-sliced deli meats are a great protein choice.  I keep some “roll ups” in the fridge for those afternoon protein pick-me-ups. However, all deli meats are not created equal,there are a few things you should know before selecting items in the deli. 

• Choose varieties that are lower in sodium. 
  
  
• Look for leaner cuts, such as turkey, ham, chicken, even roast beef. 

• Meats can be processed with fillers which are carbohydrate additives.   Look for the lowest carb counts or make sure products that list starches are at the end of the ingredient list. 

• Some meats have added sugar, these will give a slight clue by using words like “honey” in the title. Skip the sugar and add a little low fat mayo or mustard, or even better try swirling the meat around a dill pickle, a few olives, or a slice of cheese!  …enjoy!