Valentine’s Desserts That Won’t Break Your Bariatric Diet

Aside from Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day may be one of the most food-centered holidays in America. Valentine’s Day seems to revolve around giving oversized boxes of chocolates, chocolate desserts, and then, when you’re feeling overly sugared, even more chocolate. It feels like everywhere you look you’re being enticed with some kind of tasty dessert. If this is your first Valentine’s since you’ve had bariatric surgery most likely it’s been difficult to pass up the goodies you’re used to enjoying. Don’t worry. It’s normal to feel like you’re missing out during the holidays that revolve around food, however, once you find a library of bariatric recipes, changing habits and navigating food-filled holidays can be a cinch. This Valentine’s Day, consider some tasty protein-rich dessert alternatives that still let you indulge without getting off track.

Liquid Diet Desserts for Bariatric Patients
For patients who recently had surgery and who are still on a liquid diet, turn your current diet into a romantic V-Day date. Instead of going out for a milkshake with your sweetheart, stay in and make a protein shake for dinner that tastes like your favorite ice cream shop faire (dessert for dinner? Yes, please!). Protein powder and non (or low)-fat cottage cheese work together in this recipe to make a seriously tasty base for a yummy and healthy shake. Find delicious protein shake recipes on dashingdish.com. (We’re partial to the banana cream pie or oatmeal cookie shake variations.)

https://dashingdish.com/recipe/dashing-dish-official-protein-shake/

Soft Desserts for Bariatric Patients
Patient’s who are eating soft foods, but who haven’t graduated to solid foods yet, can still enjoy a super-rich chocolaty treat on Valentine’s Day. Load up on heart-healthy fats, protein, and serious chocolate flavor with this Chocolaty Avocado Protein Pudding Recipe:

• Mash up half an avocado until completely smooth.
• Add 2 tbsp. cocoa powder and 1 scoop chocolate protein powder into the avocado mixture.
• Add in 1 tablespoon of coconut milk at a time until your pudding is creamy. It may take up to 4 tablespoons to get the right consistency.
• Eat right away, or chill for an even thicker, richer treat.

Tasty Protein-Rich Dessert Recipes for Valentine’s Day
It is especially important for gastric sleeve and gastric bypass patients to consume enough protein as well as control their sugar intake. Eating too much sugar can cause dumping syndrome, which can result in uncomfortable digestive issues. Finding treats that are high in protein and low in sugars can help you stay focused, and keep you satisfied. Try these Pumped Up Protein Cheesecakes for a tasty Valentine’s Day Treat.

https://mealsandmovesblog.com/2012/02/03/pumped-up-protein-cheesecake/

Regardless of whether you’re at the beginning of your weight loss journey or you’re nearing your goal weight, there are plenty of healthy, tasty recipes that can help you achieve your healthy weight without “missing out.” Enjoy some of the protein-rich recipes above, or use them as a springboard for finding recipes that suit your tastes. The Surgical Specialists of Louisiana and Mississippi are focused on helping our patients successfully reach their goals for a healthier life. If you are interested in learning more about weight loss surgery in Louisiana or Mississippi, please attend one of our free bariatric surgery seminars, call us at 877-691-3001, or contact us online at www.whyweight.com to meet with one of our team of nine board-certified surgeons.