General Wellness

Stay Cool with These 5 High-Protein Recipes

Does the summer heat have you craving something cold, but your typical protein shake is getting a little boring?

After bariatric surgery, your daily protein goal is higher than the average person’s. Getting enough protein each day supports lean muscle, keeps your metabolism active, and helps reduce the risk of weight regain. But when it’s hot out, a warm meal or heavy shake isn’t always appealing.

These five recipes offer cold, protein-rich options that are simple to prepare and more satisfying in summer.

Toasted Mango Coconut Protein Shake

This tropical shake is creamy, refreshing, and naturally sweetened with mango and lime. Toasted coconut adds flavor without added sugar.

Ingredients:

  • 2 scoops Bariatric Advantage High Protein Supplement Mix (vanilla)
  • ½ cup fresh or frozen mango
  • ⅛ tsp coconut extract or 1 Tbsp toasted coconut chips
  • ½ lime, juiced
  • ¾ cup water (or milk of choice)
  • Optional: 4–6 ice cubes

Directions:

  • Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until smooth.
  • To toast coconut: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add shredded coconut and stir or shake gently for 3–5 minutes until golden. Cool before using. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Nutrition per serving (with water and coconut chips): 170 calories, 20 g protein, 4 g fiber, 18 g carbohydrate, 1 g added sugar, 2 g fat.

Pina Colada Shake

Bright and tropical with a protein forward twist. Great for post-workout recovery or a quick breakfast.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  • Blend all ingredients until smooth.
  • Nutrition per serving (with coconut water): 205 calories, 28 g protein, 8 g fiber, 25 g carbohydrate, 1 g added sugar, 2 g fat.

Red, White, and Blue Shake (Layered Smoothie)

This festive, high-protein smoothie is perfect for summer holidays. Make ahead and freeze each layer for a visual and nutritional treat.

Ingredients:

Red Layer:

White Layer:

Blue Layer:

Directions:

  1. Blend red layer. Pour ¼ cup into each glass. Freeze for 10 minutes.
  2. Blend white layer. Pour on top. Freeze for 10 minutes.
  3. Blend blue layer. Pour on top. Freeze for 10 minutes.
  4. Garnish with berries or banana slices.

Nutrition per serving (1 of 4, made with water): 135 calories, 20.5 g protein, 5.5 g fiber, 11 g carbohydrate, 1 g added sugar, 2 g fat.

High-Protein Gelatin Cups

A cool, refreshing snack with a protein upgrade. Perfect for meal prep or warm summer days.

Ingredients:

  • 1 box sugar-free gelatin (strawberry, cherry, raspberry, or similar red flavors)
  • 1 cup of boiling water
  • 1 cup Bariatric Advantage Clearly Protein (used in place of cold water)

Directions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the gelatin powder in boiling water.
  2. Stir in Clearly Protein as the cold liquid replacement.
  3. Pour into small containers or molds.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.

Nutrition per serving (assuming four servings per box): 40 calories, 13 g protein, 1 g carbohydrate, 0 g added sugar, 0 g fat.

Key Lime Pie Protein Pudding

A tangy, creamy treat with protein in every bite. Great for make-ahead snacks.

Ingredients:

  • 4 scoops Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacement (vanilla)
  • 1 box instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups of milk of choice
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice (key lime or regular)
  • Optional toppings: toasted coconut, sea salt, crushed nuts

Directions:

  1. Blend cold milk with protein powder.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk in Jell-O mix for 2 minutes.
  3. Fold in lime juice. Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes.
  4. Portion into ¼ to ½ cup servings.

Nutrition per ¼ cup serving (with almond milk, no toppings): 65 calories, 6 g protein, 1.5 g fiber, 6 g carbohydrate, 1.5 g added sugar, 1.5 g fat.

Try Something New This Summer

These recipes were designed for one purpose: to help you hit your protein goals without feeling like you’re stuck drinking the same shake every day. After bariatric surgery, protein supports weight loss, helps protect lean muscle, and keeps hunger in check between meals. Swapping in new options can make it easier to stay consistent without getting bored.

All recipes were developed using Bariatric Advantage protein supplements. For more options, visit our Protein Offerings.

Want more support this season? Join our virtual support group to connect with others and stay motivated.

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