Well in the US it is pretty much shoved down weight loss surgery patients throats that they must have at the very least 60-80 grams of protein a day. For most of us, especially new post-ops, this means we will have to supplement with protein shakes/smoothies. I am nearly two years out and I still have at least one protein smoothie a day. In fact, that is usually my breakfast. I just toss some frozen fruit (mostly berries), some no sugar added juice, and a scoop of vanilla protein powder (I use this stuff from Holland and Barrett:
Supreme Whey | Body Building / Sports Nutrition | Holland & Barrett) into the blender and viola, I have a very yummy, filling, satisfying, and easy on the go breakfast. More importantly, it gives me a protein burst first thing in the morning so I am stating the day off right.
I realise cereal is a staple and not innately bad for you at all but the thing is the point of this surgery is to change those habits of a lifetime that got us to the point where we needed the surgery in the first place. Also, with our new altered anatomies we have to eat differently not just to lose the weight but to stay healthy, especially for new post ops. Protein is a wonder substance, it keeps you full much longer than carbs ever will but more importantly it helps develop muscle along with facilitating your bodies ability to heal and mend itself, something of vital importance in your first few months post op. The importance of protein cannot be emphasised enough, at least that is what my surgeon always told me.
As far as protein ideas for lunch. I always like lunch meat roll ups. Just a slice of your favourite lunch meat and cheese rolled up or even roll up some lunch meat around a cheese stick (like these:
Cheestrings 8 Pack Cheddar 168G - Groceries - Tesco Groceries). Cheese snacks are always nice like the Laughing Cow light Babybel cheeses. They are easy to pack for lunch. Also look online for high protein stuff. This site:
[URL="http://www.lowcarbmegastore.com/"]http://www.lowcarbmegastore.com/[/URL] has some really good high protein stuff. Salads with chicken pieces in it is always nice too. You learn to get creative after a while and find new staples that work for you.
I know it can be challenging sometimes to find the stuff that does work for you but it's important. I know I feel loads better when I am getting in enough protein every day. I have more energy and feel more clear headed (I get dizzy when my protein intake drops below a certain level). I would really suggest counting your proteins so that you can make sure you are getting enough. I don't do that every day because I sort of know now what is what after two years but when I need to get back on track I do start counting the proteins again.
Just a few suggestions based on my own experiences so take what you want from it and leave the rest.