Bone Broth Powder Protein vs. Whey Isolates

[KimBaxleyWilson 5]

I'm currently debating Proteins with my husband. LOL He's sold on Bone Broth Protein Powder, but I keep reading about whey isolate. Which is better for bariatric patients??

[NickelChip 1,318]

Every doctor I've seen recommends whey isolate, but you should check with your dietician. Bone Broth is collagen and that is not the same type of Protein, at least as I recall it being explained. I was told I could have bone broth but that it doesn't count the same way. I do know, however, that certain brands might be making versions that have the missing amino acids, so that could be an option. Definitely ask a registered dietician or your bariatric team.

[KimBaxleyWilson 5]

Thank you! I'm know my husband’s favorite Podcaster lovvvves the paleovalley Bone Broth Protein Powder, but we haven't got any of the unflavored for me to taste. Anything with flavors (i.e. stevia, Monkfruit, sugar alcohols, etc.) makes me ill. I'm just trying to get some things on hand to try after my surgery.

[SpartanMaker 909]

collagen Protein by itself is not considered a complete protein because it only has trace amounts (at best) of tryptophan, an essential amino acid. As @NickelChip mentioned, some collagen protein supplements add L-tryptophan to make a more complete protein. Looking at the one your husband is suggesting however, it does not look to have any added L-tryptophan, meaning it's really not suitable.

Something else to keep in mind is that whey protein has a huge number of scientific studies showing it's better at muscle protein synthesis than collagen. A protein first diet is recommended for bariatric patients due to the desire to spare muscle catabolism when on a very low calorie diet. If whey is better at muscle protein synthesis, then it makes sense to focus on whey (or alternately on lean whole foods like chicken & fish). This is the reason almost all bariatric surgeons will tell you that it's fine to take collagen, but you should be careful if you are counting it toward your overall daily protein goals.

FYI, due to your issues with artificial sweeteners, you probably should be looking for an unflavored version of whey protein isolate. Because it's unflavored, it's also likely to be unsweetened. I personally like Isopure brand, but there are others that are good as well.

[NickelChip 1,318]

If it works with what you've been given for a diet plan, the unflavored whey powder (like Isopure) blends well into Tomato Soup or butternut bisque. I found that to be a delightful alternative to the sweet shakes. You might also buy Fairlife skim milk, which has 13g Protein per 8oz serving, and blend with PB2 Peanut Butter powder (and a banana if allowed) for a really nice smoothie. Lastly, a few brands of the bariatric Protein Shakes make chicken, beef, or French onion flavored powders that you can heat up for a savory "shake".