Sticking to a bariatric diet has its challenges, and summertime temptations are no exception. When the urge to snack on a decadent frozen treat strikes, having bariatric-friendly options can satisfy those cravings without the extra calories. The following protein smoothies offer the flavors of summer with a much healthier twist.
Orange Creamsicle Protein Smoothie
This smoothie offers a protein-packed alternative to the well-known ice cream indulgence. Whether you’re with a group of friends enjoying a frozen summer treat or want a snack to beat the summer heat, this protein smoothie is an excellent choice.
Smoothie Ingredients
This ice cream-inspired smoothie is simple to make, and you may already have all the ingredients you need on hand. This recipe calls for:
- 1 orange, zested and peeled
- 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 1 single-serve container of plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
- 6-8 ice cubes
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
The above ingredients are for a single serving. Double your ingredients to share with a friend!
Directions
One of the greatest benefits of smoothies is how easy they are to make. Combine all the ingredients in your blender and blend everything until the texture is smooth.
Nutrition Information
The following is the nutrition breakdown per one smoothie:
- Calories: 252
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 32g
The nutrition information may vary depending on the kind of protein powder you use.
Pina Colada Protein Smoothie
Summertime often means frozen alcoholic drinks, but bariatric patients need to tread lightly when it comes to alcohol. Most bariatric surgeons advise their patients to avoid alcohol for the first six months after surgery and to limit their intake beyond this point. Alcohol is high in calories while offering little nutritional value. Many alcoholic beverages are high in sugar as well, which can cause problems for your new anatomy.
This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy frozen treats reminiscent of your favorite drinks! The following is a great alternative to a traditional pina colada.
Smoothie Ingredients
This recipe yields one smoothie and calls for the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
- ¼ cup fresh or frozen pineapple chunks
- 2-3 tbsp of sugar-free coconut syrup
- 6-8 ice cubes
Sugar-free syrups are a great way to add flavor to your bariatric recipes without the excess sugar or calories of traditional flavoring syrups.
Directions
Add all the ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth. If you’re using frozen pineapple chunks, you may not need as many ice cubes to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition Information
This tasty summertime smoothie provides the following nutrients:
- Calories: 135.5
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 16g
Strawberry Watermelon Mojito Protein Smoothie
Another twist on a summer classic, this protein smoothie is satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
The following ingredients will yield one smoothie:
- 1 scoop strawberry protein powder
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup watermelon chunks
- 2 tbsp chopped mint
- Optional: 6-8 ice cubes
If you don’t have strawberry protein powder on hand, you can use vanilla protein powder instead. To keep the flavor, add fresh strawberries.
Directions
The secret to achieving a similar flavor profile to a mojito is using water instead of almond milk as your liquid base. Add all the ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, frostier smoothie.
Nutritional Information
The following is a nutritional breakdown of this protein-packed mojito alternative:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Protein: 24.5
Weight loss success after bariatric surgery isn’t contingent on eliminating certain foods from your diet. By making healthy substitutes, you can still enjoy summer sweets and beverages. Contact us to learn more about life after bariatric surgery.
