Tag: #BariatricLife

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

Lisa Kidd

Apple pie in a glass! 🍎🥧

If you’re craving the warm, cozy flavors of fall but want something quick, easy, and packed with protein, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Protein Smoothie is the perfect treat.

This smoothie combines creamy vanilla, applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, brown sugar cinnamon, and salted caramel flavors to create something that tastes remarkably like a slice of apple pie.

And there’s no pie crust required! 😉

Even better, this smoothie contains 45 grams of protein, making it a delicious way to add more protein to your day.

🍎 Ingredients

  • 8 cubes of ice
  • 1 vanilla protein shake
  • ½ cup low-sugar applesauce
  • 5.3 oz Oikos Triple Zero Vanilla Greek Yogurt
  • A drizzle of Salted Caramel Skinny Syrup
  • A drizzle of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Skinny Syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon allspice
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salted Caramel Salt

🥤 How to Make It

Add the ice, vanilla protein shake, applesauce, Greek yogurt, Salted Caramel Skinny Syrup, Brown Sugar Cinnamon Skinny Syrup, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon to your blender.

Blend everything together until smooth.

Pour into your favorite glass or jar and finish it with a sprinkle of Salted Caramel Salt.

That’s it!

🍎 The Result?

Apple pie in a glass!

The apple and cinnamon flavors give this smoothie that classic apple-pie taste, while the salted caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

And with 45 grams of protein, this isn’t just a delicious fall-inspired drink—it’s a protein-packed addition to your day.

🍂 Perfect for Fall

I absolutely love taking classic comfort-food flavors and turning them into bariatric-friendly options that fit the way I eat.

This smoothie would make a great breakfast, snack, or afternoon treat when you’re craving something sweet.

And honestly, if you love apple pie, you need to try this one! 🍎🥧❤️

📺 Watch the Recipe

Come join me in the kitchen on Bariatric Living with Lisa as I make this delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Protein Smoothie!

I hope you’ll subscribe and follow along for more high-protein, low-carb and sugar-free recipes, food ideas, and real-life bariatric living.

What’s your favorite fall flavor—APPLE PIE or PUMPKIN? 🍎🎃

Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Coffee

Lisa Kidd

There is something about waking up to the smell of pumpkin spice that makes a fall morning feel extra special. 🎃🍂

This morning, I decided to get ahead of the game and create a Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Coffee for Bariatric Living with Lisa, and I’m so glad I did!

This coffee combines creamy cheesecake flavor, pumpkin spice, maple bourbon pecan, and homemade pumpkin cold foam into one delicious three-layer drink.

And the best part? It isn’t just delicious—it fits perfectly into the kind of coffee I love making: high-protein, low-carb, and sugar-free.

☕️ Why Add Pumpkin Pie Spice to the Coffee?

Instead of simply adding pumpkin spice to the finished drink, I added Pumpkin Pie Spice directly to my Folgers coffee grounds before brewing.

When the coffee started brewing, my entire kitchen smelled like fall!

The pumpkin spice infused the coffee with a warm, cozy flavor that made the perfect foundation for this drink.

🎃 The Three Delicious Layers

One of my favorite things about this coffee is that you can actually see the three layers in the glass.

1. Cheesecake Layer

I started with a vanilla protein shake and added 2 teaspoons of sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix.

I mixed it really well until the pudding mix was completely incorporated.

This creates a creamy cheesecake-flavored base that makes this coffee taste like dessert!

2. Pumpkin-Spiced Coffee Layer

Next, I added ice and a drizzle of Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup.

Then I poured in my freshly brewed pumpkin-spiced coffee.

The maple bourbon pecan flavor pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice and cheesecake.

3. Pumpkin Cold Foam

Now for my favorite part!

I combined:

  • Heavy cream
  • A drizzle of Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup
  • A spoonful of pumpkin puree

I frothed everything together until it became light and creamy, then gently poured the pumpkin cold foam over the coffee.

Finally, I sprinkled a little Salted Caramel Salt over the top.

🤎 The Finished Coffee

The combination is incredible!

You get creamy cheesecake flavor from the bottom, rich pumpkin-spiced coffee in the middle, and a fluffy pumpkin cold foam on top.

The Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup ties everything together and adds a delicious fall sweetness without adding regular sugar.

And visually, those three layers make this coffee so much fun to serve!

🎃 Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Coffee Recipe

Ingredients

Cheesecake Layer

  • Vanilla protein shake
  • 2 teaspoons sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix

Coffee Layer

  • Folgers coffee
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • Ice
  • Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup

Pumpkin Cold Foam

  • Heavy cream
  • Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup
  • Pumpkin puree

Topping

  • Salted Caramel Salt

Instructions

  1. Add Pumpkin Pie Spice to your coffee grounds and brew your coffee as usual.
  2. Pour your vanilla protein shake into a mason jar.
  3. Add 2 teaspoons of sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix and stir until well combined.
  4. Add ice to the jar.
  5. Drizzle in some Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup.
  6. Pour the pumpkin-spiced coffee over the ice.
  7. For the cold foam, combine heavy cream, Maple Bourbon Pecan Skinny Syrup, and pumpkin puree.
  8. Froth until thick and creamy.
  9. Spoon or pour the pumpkin cold foam over the coffee.
  10. Finish with a sprinkle of Salted Caramel Salt.
  11. Give it a stir before drinking and enjoy!

🍁 A Cozy Fall Coffee Without Giving Up Your Goals

One of the things I love most about making my own coffee creations is that I don’t have to give up the flavors I love just because I’m living a bariatric lifestyle.

Pumpkin spice season doesn’t have to mean giving up your protein goals!

This Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Coffee gives me all those cozy fall flavors while keeping my coffee protein-forward, low-carb, and sugar-free.

And honestly… waking up to the smell of pumpkin spice coffee brewing might just be the best part! ☕️🎃

If you make this recipe, let me know what you think. I’d also love to know what fall coffee creation I should make next!

💕 Welcome to Bariatric Living with Lisa—where we’re finding delicious ways to live well, one bite and one sip at a time.

High Protein Caramel Banana Fluffer Nutter Iced Coffee

Lisa Kidd

If you grew up loving Fluffer Nutter sandwiches or peanut butter and banana sandwiches, this recipe is going to bring back some memories.

I wanted to create a protein coffee that tasted indulgent while still fitting into a bariatric-friendly lifestyle. The result is my High Protein Caramel Banana Fluffer Nutter Iced Coffee—a creamy blend of coffee, banana, peanut butter, marshmallow, and caramel flavors with a protein boost.

This drink feels like something you’d order from a specialty coffee shop, but it’s easy to make at home and can help you meet your daily protein goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in protein
  • Lower in sugar than traditional coffeehouse drinks
  • Quick and easy to make
  • Bariatric lifestyle friendly
  • Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up

Ingredients

  • 8 oz brewed coffee
  • 1 Monster Alani Protein Shake (or your favorite protein shake)
  • 1 banana
  • 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter, divided
  • Skinny Mixes Caramel Sauce
  • Skinny Mixes Marshmallow Sauce
  • Skinny Mixes Salted Caramel Syrup
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Brew your coffee and allow it to cool.
  2. Blend the protein shake, banana, and 1 tablespoon peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
  3. Melt the remaining tablespoon of peanut butter.
  4. Drizzle melted peanut butter, caramel sauce, and marshmallow sauce around the inside of your glass.
  5. Fill the glass with ice.
  6. Add a drizzle of salted caramel syrup.
  7. Pour the blended protein mixture into the glass.
  8. Top with brewed coffee.
  9. Stir and enjoy!

Tips

  • Freeze your banana beforehand for an extra thick, frosty texture.
  • Use decaf coffee if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
  • Adjust the amount of syrup and sauce to fit your sweetness preferences.
  • Try different protein shake flavors for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

One of the biggest challenges after bariatric surgery can be finding enjoyable ways to prioritize protein. This recipe proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to stay on track.

If you make this High Protein Caramel Banana Fluffer Nutter Iced Coffee, I’d love to hear what you think. Leave a comment on my YouTube video or tag me on social media and share your creation!

Happy sipping!

— Lisa
Bariatric Living with Lisa

Ranking Pork King Good’s Savory Pork Rinds | Bariatric Friendly Snack Review

Lisa Kidd

Finding satisfying crunchy snacks after bariatric surgery can sometimes feel impossible — especially when you’re trying to stay low carb and prioritize protein. That’s why I was excited to try the savory flavored pork rinds from Pork King Good for another taste testing video on Bariatric Living with Lisa.

And let me tell you… these did NOT disappoint!

I tried several savory flavors and ranked them from my favorite to my least favorite. Every flavor had great crunch and bold seasoning, but a few really stood out as absolute winners for me.

One thing I love about pork rinds is that they’re naturally low carb and high in protein, making them a great option for bariatric and keto lifestyles. They’re also perfect when you want something salty and crunchy without reaching for potato chips.

If you’ve been searching for new bariatric-friendly snack ideas, these are definitely worth trying.

Be sure to watch the full video on Bariatric Living with Lisa to see my complete rankings and find out which flavor took the top spot!

Protein Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Smoothie (37g Protein)

Lisa Kidd

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and protein-packed smoothie, this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Protein Smoothie is a must try!

It tastes just like a creamy slice of cheesecake but is designed to help you stay on track with your protein goals. This recipe is perfect for a bariatric lifestyle, especially on busy mornings when you need something fast and filling.

One of the things I love most about this smoothie is how simple it is. Everything goes right into the blender and within minutes you have a sweet, creamy drink that tastes like dessert but gives your body the protein it needs.

Even better — this smoothie packs 37 grams of protein, making it a great option for breakfast, a snack, or anytime you need a protein boost.

Ingredients

4 oz frozen strawberries
2 oz banana
3 oz vanilla Greek yogurt

A splash of Jordan’s Cherry Skinny Syrup
1 Tablespoon sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix
1 vanilla protein shake (I used Member’s Mark Vanilla Protein Shake)

Optional topping:
White Chocolate Cold Foam

Instructions

Add the frozen strawberries, banana, vanilla Greek yogurt, sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix, Jordan’s Cherry Skinny Syrup, and vanilla protein shake to a blender.

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Pour into a glass and top with white chocolate cold foam if desired.

Enjoy!

Why This Smoothie Is Great for Bariatric Living

After bariatric surgery, getting enough protein each day is incredibly important. Smoothies like this make it easy to stay on track while still enjoying something that tastes amazing.

This recipe is:

✔ High protein
✔ Quick and easy
✔ Bariatric friendly
✔ Perfect for on-the-go

If you enjoy simple recipes like this, be sure to check out more recipes on Bariatric Living with Lisa where I share easy ways to make bariatric living delicious and sustainable.

Bariatric Myths vs Reality: What’s Actually Normal After Surgery

Lisa Kidd

Life after bariatric surgery comes with a lot of opinions—and unfortunately, a lot of myths. Over time, these myths can turn into guilt, fear, and the feeling that you’re “doing it wrong.”

Let’s clear a few things up.

Myth: You’ll never be hungry again.
Reality: Hunger can come back, especially months or years post-op. Hunger does not mean your surgery failed. It’s normal. At least for me, it’s normal.

Myth: Regain means you failed.
Reality: Weight fluctuations happen. Regain is feedback, not failure. It’s a chance to reassess habits—not a reason to quit.

Myth: You can’t eat carbs ever again.
Reality: Carbs aren’t the enemy. Balance, portion awareness, and protein-first choices matter more than cutting out entire food groups.

Myth: Protein has to be boring.
Reality: Protein can be delicious, satisfying, and creative. Eating well doesn’t have to feel like punishment.

What about cravings and scale stalls?
Cravings happen. Stalls happen. Neither one means you’ve messed everything up. Consistency matters more than perfection, and one off day doesn’t erase progress.

One habit I never skip:
Getting back to basics. Protein first. Hydration. Grace.

If you’re navigating life after bariatric surgery and wondering if what you’re experiencing is normal—chances are, it is. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re learning how to live in this new season.

And that counts.

A Different Kind of New Year

Lisa Kidd

As I was reflecting on this New Year, something hit me — quietly, but powerfully.
This is the first year of my life that I’m not making a New Year’s resolution centered around weight loss.

For so many years, the new year meant chasing a smaller number, more restriction, or “fixing” myself. But this year feels different. It feels peaceful. It feels rooted.

What I’m Focusing on Instead

Instead of weight loss, my goals are centered on health, faith, and gratitude.

I want to:

  • Nourish my body better by incorporating more red meat and protein-forward meals
  • Move my body regularly through exercise
  • Spend intentional time in Bible study, growing spiritually
  • Live with gratitude

These goals feel sustainable. They feel life-giving.

Gratitude Changes Everything

I also want to say how incredibly grateful I am for this community. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just recently subscribed, your support means more than I can express.

This space is about more than food or fitness — it’s about living well after major life changes and doing it with grace.

Moving Forward

If you’re stepping into this New Year without a weight loss resolution — or questioning the ones you’ve always made — I want you to know that it’s okay to do things differently.

Growth doesn’t always look loud.
Sometimes it looks like peace.

Here’s to a New Year filled with health, faith, gratitude, and intention.

Refreshing Sugar-Free Protein Drink Hack

Lisa Kidd

If you’re tired of drinking plain protein shakes, this simple protein drink hack is about to become your new favorite. It’s light, refreshing, sugar-free, and completely customizable — perfect for bariatric life or anyone focused on high-protein, low-carb living.

One of the biggest challenges after surgery (or during weight loss) is finding ways to enjoy protein without getting bored. This drink feels more like a fun, flavored refresher than a traditional protein shake — and it’s incredibly easy to make.

🥤 Protein Drink Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sugar-free drink packets (any flavors you love)
  • A small amount of water
  • Ice
  • 1–2 splashes of sugar-free syrup (optional)
  • 1 ready-to-drink protein shake

Directions:

  1. Add the drink packets to a cup with a small amount of water and stir until fully dissolved.
  2. Fill the cup with ice.
  3. Add a splash or two of sugar-free syrup if desired.
  4. Pour in your protein shake.
  5. Stir well and enjoy!

Flavor Combo I Used

  • Welch’s Cherry Pomegranate
  • Sonic Ocean Water

This combo is fruity, refreshing, and perfect for warmer days — but the possibilities are endless.

💡 Why This Works for Bariatric Life

  • Helps increase protein intake
  • Encourages hydration
  • Sugar-free and low-carb
  • Easy on the stomach
  • Totally customizable

If you try this protein drink, let me know your favorite flavor combo! And be sure to follow Bariatric Living for more protein-forward recipes and tips that make this lifestyle easier — and more enjoyable.

Sugar-Free Apple Cranberry Dump Cake

Lisa Kidd

If you love classic comfort desserts but want a lower-sugar option, this Sugar-Free Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is a must-try. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for anyone following a bariatric or low-sugar lifestyle.

This recipe combines tender apples, tart cranberries, warm spices, and a buttery cake topping—all without traditional sugar. It’s one of those desserts that no one will believe is sugar-free.

Ingredients

  • 5 apples, cubed
  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup Splenda
  • ⅛ cup Jordan’s Caramel Skinny Syrup
  • ⅛ cup Jordan’s Brown Sugar Cinnamon Skinny Syrup
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Pillsbury Zero Sugar Yellow Cake Mix
  • 16–20 pats of butter

Instructions

  1. Sauté apples and cranberries in a skillet with butter, Splenda, and both Skinny Syrups until tender.
  2. Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry and stir into the fruit mixture until thickened.
  3. Transfer fruit filling to a 9×13 baking dish.
  4. Evenly spread the zero-sugar cake mix over the fruit.
  5. Top with butter pats.
  6. Bake at 325°F for 30–40 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

One of my favorite ways to add flavor without added sugar is by using Jordan’s Skinny Syrups. The caramel and brown sugar cinnamon flavors give this dump cake that classic holiday taste without the sugar spike.

👉 You can save 10% on your first order at skinnymixes.com by using my code: BARIATRICLIVING101

Final Thoughts

This sugar-free dump cake is proof that you don’t have to give up dessert to stay on track. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for holidays or anytime cravings hit.

Sleeve vs SIPS: Two Bariatric Surgeries, One Friendship

Lisa Kidd

As I continue sharing my rediscovered 2018 bariatric videos on Bariatric Living 101, today’s video holds a very special place in my heart.

In this throwback video, I’m joined by my friend Penny. Penny and I met at the bariatric center and ended up having our surgeries on the exact same day. While we walked into surgery together, we chose two different bariatric procedures. I had Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Penny chose SIPS.

A Quick Protein Taste Test Before the Talk

Before our discussion begins, I share a quick taste test of a protein pudding I picked up from Aldi and give my honest thoughts. Finding protein-focused foods that actually taste good is a big part of bariatric life — and I’ve always believed in keeping things real.

Sleeve Gastrectomy vs SIPS: Our Experiences

In our conversation, Penny and I talk openly about:

  • What led us to choose different surgeries
  • How Sleeve Gastrectomy and SIPS differ
  • Early recovery experiences
  • What life looked like shortly after surgery

This wasn’t about saying one surgery is better than the other — it was about sharing real experiences so others could feel informed while making their own decisions.

Why I’m Sharing This Video Now

Many people following Bariatric Living 101 today are still in the research phase of their bariatric journey. Hearing firsthand experiences from patients who chose different paths can be incredibly valuable — and this video captures that honesty from the very beginning of my journey.

If you’re considering bariatric surgery, newly post-op, or just looking for community, I hope this video reminds you that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach — only the choice that’s right for you.

👉 Watch the full video on YouTube and don’t forget to subscribe for more bariatric lifestyle content, recipes, and rediscovered moments from my journey.