What is the recommended daily protein intake range after bariatric surgery?

What is the recommended daily protein intake range after bariatric surgery?

• A. 60-100 g
• B. 10-20 g
• C. 120-140 g
• D. 200-250 g

Answer: (A)

After bariatric surgery, protein becomes the priority nutrient because the procedure reduces stomach capacity and can increase the need to preserve lean body mass and support healing. A daily target around 60–100 grams is commonly recommended, with many protocols also suggesting about 1.0–1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of ideal body weight, adjusted for tolerance. This range balances delivering enough amino acids to sustain tissue repair and metabolic needs with what a person can realistically consume through small meals and protein supplements in the early recovery period. Lower amounts would risk muscle loss and slower healing, while aiming higher can be impractical during the immediate postoperative phase, though protein intake may rise as tolerance improves.

After bariatric surgery, protein becomes the priority nutrient because the procedure reduces stomach capacity and can increase the need to preserve lean body mass and support healing. A daily target around 60–100 grams is commonly recommended, with many protocols also suggesting about 1.0–1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of ideal body weight, adjusted for tolerance. This range balances delivering enough amino acids to sustain tissue repair and metabolic needs with what a person can realistically consume through small meals and protein supplements in the early recovery period. Lower amounts would risk muscle loss and slower healing, while aiming higher can be impractical during the immediate postoperative phase, though protein intake may rise as tolerance improves.