Easy Bariatric-Friendly Protein Shake Recipes

Bariatric-Friendly Protein Shake Recipes with AmBari Nutrition

These recipes use AmBari Nutrition single-serving packets, each delivering 15g of protein and 100 calories, plus calcium, vitamin D, and iron to support bone health, energy, and recovery after bariatric surgery. Blend with 8 oz liquid for best consistency, adjusting for thinner textures in early post-op phases. Be sure to talk with your bariatric team or dietician if you're in the early stages of your pre-op diet.

Check out our Bariatric Protein Shakes collection to find your new favorite flavor or more delicious options to blend into your homemade shakes!

Strawberry Blast Summer Smoothie

A refreshing, antioxidant-rich shake with AmBari’s Strawberry Blast, perfect for hydration and digestion. This is an awesome summertime smoothie.

• 1 packet AmBari Nutrition Strawberry Blast Protein Shake (15g protein, 100 calories)
• ½ cup fresh or frozen strawberries (~2g protein, ~25 calories)
• 8 oz unsweetened almond milk (~1g protein, ~30 calories)
• 1 tsp chia seeds for fiber (~2g protein, ~30 calories)
• A handful of ice cubes (0g protein, 0 calories)

Instructions: Blend until smooth.

Nutrition: ~20g protein, ~185 calories. The strawberries add vitamin C, while chia boosts fiber for bowel regularity.

Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Bliss

A satisfying, nutty shake using AmBari’s Milk Chocolate powder, curbing cravings with healthy fats. Great milkshake flavor and consistency!

• 1 packet AmBari Nutrition Milk Chocolate Protein Shake (15g protein, 100 calories)
• 1 tbsp natural peanut butter (or almond butter), no added sugar (~4g protein, ~90 calories)
• 8 oz unsweetened almond milk (~1g protein, ~30 calories)
• ½ frozen banana, optional (~0.5g protein, ~45 calories)
• Ice as desired (0g protein, 0 calories)

Instructions: Blend to a creamy texture.

Nutrition: ~20.5g protein (with banana), ~265 calories. The nutrients support muscle maintenance and energy needs.

French Vanilla Peach Pie Delight

A soothing, spiced shake with AmBari’s French Vanilla, incorporating peaches for natural sweetness. This one has a bit more of an autumn vibe.

• 1 packet AmBari Nutrition French Vanilla Protein Shake (15g protein, 100 calories)
• ½ cup frozen peaches (~0.5g protein, ~30 calories)
• 8 oz vanilla soy milk (~6g protein, ~80 calories) or water (0g protein, 0 calories)
• ⅛ tsp cinnamon (0g protein, 0 calories)
• Optional: A few spinach leaves (~0.5g protein, ~5 calories)

Instructions: Blend until velvety.

Nutrition: ~22g protein (with soy milk and spinach), ~215 calories. Peaches provide vitamin C, and cinnamon aids digestion.

Chocolate Hazelnut Coffee Kick

A bold, energizing shake with AmBari's Chocolate Hazelnut, ideal for a morning or post-workout boost. The hazelnut shakes are a very popular morning shake flavor.

• 1 packet AmBari Nutrition Chocolate Hazelnut Protein Shake (15g protein, 100 calories)
• ½ cup cold brew coffee, decaf if preferred (0g protein, ~5 calories)
• 8 oz unsweetened almond milk (~1g protein, ~30 calories)
• 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder (~0.5g protein, ~10 calories)
• Ice cubes (0g protein, 0 calories)

Instructions: Blend until frothy.

Nutrition: ~16.5g protein, ~145 calories. The nutrient mix supports recovery, and coffee adds a low-calorie energy lift.

Chocolate Chill Mint Refresher

A cool, minty shake with AmBari’s Chocolate Chill Mint, perfect for a refreshing treat. 

• 1 packet AmBari Nutrition Chocolate Chill Mint Protein Shake (15g protein, 100 calories)
• ½ cup frozen blueberries (~0.5g protein, ~40 calories)
• 8 oz water (0g protein, 0 calories) or low-fat milk alternative (~1g protein, ~30 calories)
• A sprig of fresh mint, optional (0g protein, 0 calories)
• Ice as needed (0g protein, 0 calories)

Instructions: Blend to a smooth consistency.

Nutrition: ~16.5g protein (with milk alternative), ~170 calories. Blueberries add antioxidants, supporting immune health.

Tips for Making and Enjoying Your Shakes

These tips will help you make your shakes work for your bariatric diet and lifestyle:

• Start with Thin Liquids: If you’re in the early weeks after surgery (full liquid phase or pureed phase), use water or thin almond milk to make shakes easier to digest. Avoid thick textures until your doctor says it’s okay.
• Measure Portions Carefully: Bariatric stomachs are small, so sip slowly and stick to 8-10 oz servings. This helps avoid discomfort and keeps you in line with calorie goals.
• Store Packets Properly: Keep AmBari packets in a cool, dry place to maintain their vitamins and minerals, like calcium and vitamin D, which help your body stay strong.
• Mix Up Flavors: Try different flavors to keep things fun. Add safe ingredients like cinnamon or unsweetened cocoa for variety without extra sugar.
• Time Your Shakes: Drink shakes between meals as a snack or meal replacement, especially if you’re busy or need a quick protein boost after exercise. Aim for 60-80g protein daily, as your dietitian suggests.
• Stay Hydrated: Protein shakes don’t count toward your water intake. Drink 48-64 oz of water daily, sipping between shakes and meals to avoid dehydration.
• Check with Your Doctor: Everyone’s bariatric diet plan is different. Before trying these recipes, talk to your healthcare provider or dietitian to make sure they fit your stage and health needs.
• Travel Smart: AmBari packets are easy to pack for trips. Mix with bottled water or a shaker bottle for a quick, nutrient-packed meal on the go.