Simple, realistic foods that make healthy eating easier for the whole family.

After bariatric surgery, my pantry had to change. Over time, I built a pantry that works for both my recovery and my family’s everyday meals.

These are the high‑protein, bariatric‑friendly staples I keep stocked at all times. They’re soft‑texture friendly, easy to portion, kid‑approved, and perfect for quick meals or snacks. Most of them come from Amazon, Walmart, Target, Thrive Market, or Vitacost — places you’re probably already shopping.

High‑Protein Pasta Alternatives

Perfect for: quick dinners, kid meals, and adding protein without extra effort.

My favorites:

• Brami chickpea pasta
• Veggipasta lentil pasta
• Barilla+ high protein wheat pasta

Why I keep it stocked: It cooks fast, tastes like regular pasta, and gives me a protein boost without relying on meat. My kids don’t notice the difference, which means no whining during dinnertime.

Shelf‑Stable Protein Shakes & Drinks

Perfect for: mornings, busy days, and hitting protein goals.

My favorites:

• Fairlife Protein (tastes like chocolate milk!)
• Premier Protein (so many options)
• Alani (love the variety pack, keeps things from getting boring)

Why I keep it stocked: Even though I don’t want shakes every day, having them on hand saves me when I’m low on energy or short on time. Sometimes, I’m at the end of the day and realize I didn’t hit my protein goal. This is a super quick and easy way to make sure I do!

High‑Protein Snacks (Kid Approved)

Perfect for: lunchboxes, after‑school snacks, and bariatric‑friendly grazing.

My favorites:

• Quest Protein chips
• Kodiak High‑protein granola bars (love the peanut butter!)
• Premier Protein cereal

Why I keep it stocked: These are crunchy, fun, and feel like “normal” snacks — but with way more protein. My kids love them too, which makes life easier.

Canned Chicken & Tuna Packs

Perfect for: quick lunches, meal prep, and soft‑texture meals. This is one of my favorite ways to get in my protein

My favorites:

• Chicken breast cans
• Tuna packets

Why I keep it stocked: They’re cheap, high‑protein, and last forever. I mix them with a little light mayo or Greek yogurt for a fast lunch. Also great to put over salads!

High‑Protein Soups & Broths

Perfect for: soft‑texture days, cold weather, and easy dinners.

My favorites:

• Pacific foods Bone broth
• Lentil soup
• Chicken Noodle soup (strained if needed)

Why I keep it stocked: Warm, comforting, and easy to digest — especially on days when solid food feels like too much. Lentils are a surprisingly great source of protein!

Nut Butters & Protein Spreads

Perfect for: quick snacks, toast, fruit dips, and adding calories when needed.

My favorites:

• Almond butter
• Protein Peanut Butter

Why I keep it stocked: A spoonful is filling, satisfying, and kid‑friendly. Great for pairing with apples or rice cakes.

High‑Protein Breakfast Staples

Perfect for: fast mornings and kid‑friendly meals.

My favorites:

• Kodiak pancake mix
• High‑protein oatmeal (even better if you make your own at home, find the recipe here)
• Chobani High‑protein yogurt – add some fruit, granola, or nuts on top!

Why I keep it stocked: Breakfast is the easiest meal to boost protein, and these options keep everyone happy.

Final Thoughts

Building a high‑protein pantry doesn’t have to be complicated. These are the foods that make my life easier — as a bariatric patient, a mom, and someone who wants meals to be simple and satisfying.

If you’re rebuilding your pantry after surgery or just trying to eat more protein, start with a few of these staples. They make a huge difference.