Tag: #SugarFree

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? 🍎🎃

Sugar-Free Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

Lisa Kidd

Chocolate brownies meet creamy pumpkin cheesecake in this delicious sugar-free fall dessert! 🎃🍫

If you’re anything like me, when fall arrives, you’re ready for all things pumpkin. Pumpkin spice, pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin bread…give me all of it!

But sometimes you want something a little more indulgent without loading your dessert up with sugar.

That’s exactly why I decided to make these Sugar-Free Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies.

They combine a chocolate brownie base with a creamy pumpkin cheesecake layer flavored with cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. Then everything gets swirled together before baking to create those gorgeous chocolate-and-pumpkin ribbons throughout the dessert.

And just look at them! 😍

What You’ll Need

For the brownie layer, I used Pillsbury Zero Sugar Brownies, prepared according to the package directions.

For the pumpkin cheesecake layer, you’ll need:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • ¼ cup Splenda
  • 1 egg
  • ⅔ cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing an 8×8-inch baking pan with cooking spray.

Prepare your brownie batter according to the directions on the box. Reserve a small amount of the brownie batter to use for the swirl.

Next, make the pumpkin cheesecake layer.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, Splenda and egg until well combined. Add the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg and whisk again until everything is incorporated.

Spread the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.

Now comes the fun part!

Drop small teaspoons of the reserved brownie batter over the pumpkin cheesecake layer. Take a skewer or the tip of a knife and gently swirl the brownie batter through the pumpkin mixture.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs attached.

Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.

🎃 A Perfect Fall Treat

I absolutely love how these brownies bring together two classic flavors: chocolate and pumpkin cheesecake.

The pumpkin layer is creamy and warmly spiced, while the brownie gives you that rich chocolate flavor. And those swirls make them look extra special without requiring anything complicated.

They’re the kind of dessert that would be perfect for a fall gathering, a family dessert table, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and pumpkin-y at home.

And if you’re following a bariatric lifestyle like I am, finding ways to enjoy familiar flavors while being mindful of your food choices can make a huge difference.

Sometimes you don’t have to give up your favorite flavors—you just have to find a way to make them work for you. ❤️

🍫 Final Thoughts

These Sugar-Free Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies are definitely going on my fall dessert list!

If you love pumpkin, cheesecake AND chocolate, I think you’re going to love this combination.

🎃 Pumpkin + 🍫 Chocolate + 🧀 Cheesecake = FALL PERFECTION!

If you try this recipe, let me know how yours turned out!

And don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel, Bariatric Living with Lisa, for more bariatric-friendly recipes, low-carb ideas and sugar-free treats.

Happy baking! ❤️

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 Tiramisu-Inspired Overnight Pudding

Lisa Kidd

If you love the flavors of tiramisu but want a simpler, higher-protein, lower-carb, and sugar-free option, this Tiramisu-Inspired Overnight Pudding is a delicious treat to try!

This easy recipe combines creamy vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla protein shake, chia seeds, and espresso for a delicious coffee-flavored pudding. A dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder on top gives it that classic tiramisu-inspired finish.

It comes together in just minutes and sets overnight in the refrigerator, making it a great option for an easy breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • ½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup vanilla protein shake of your choice
  • 1 teaspoon Nescafé Espresso
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for topping

Instructions

  1. Add the chia seeds, vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla protein shake, and espresso to a bowl or container.
  2. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
  3. Sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder over the top.
  4. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  5. The next day, stir if desired and enjoy your delicious tiramisu-inspired protein pudding!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is:

  • High in protein
  • Low in carbohydrates
  • Sugar-free
  • Easy to prepare
  • Perfect for meal prep
  • A delicious way to satisfy a coffee and chocolate craving

The espresso and cocoa powder give this pudding those delicious tiramisu-inspired flavors, while the Greek yogurt and protein shake help make it a more protein-forward option.

Bariatric-Friendly Recipe Note

This is a simple recipe that can be enjoyed as part of a protein-forward lifestyle. As with any recipe, portion sizes and individual tolerance can vary, especially after bariatric surgery. Always follow the recommendations and guidance of your healthcare team.

If you try this recipe, I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious twist on tiramisu! ☕🍫💕

Celebrating 100 Subscribers with High-Protein Low-Carb Tiramisu!

Lisa Kidd

I can hardly believe it—Bariatric Living with Lisa has reached 100 subscribers! 🎉💯

This may be my first 100 subscribers, but each and every one of them is incredibly special to me. I wanted to create a video that was more than just a recipe. I wanted to celebrate the people who have supported my channel and let them know how truly grateful I am.

To celebrate, I made a special High-Protein, Low-Carb Tiramisu! ☕🍫

A Special 100 Subscriber Celebration

For the video, I created a fun celebration setup with confetti falling over the words “100 Subscribers.” I also made a special dessert with the number 100 candles to mark this milestone.

Then I took everyone into the kitchen with me to make a healthier version of one of my favorite classic desserts: tiramisu!

After making the dessert, I returned to the celebration area for a taste test. It was such a fun way to celebrate this milestone with everyone who has supported my channel.

High-Protein Low-Carb Tiramisu

This tiramisu begins with homemade coconut-flour ladyfingers. The recipe combines separated eggs, sifted coconut flour, sweetener, vanilla, and whey protein powder to create the ladyfingers. The batter is carefully folded together to help preserve the air whipped into the egg whites before being piped and baked.

Once cooled, the ladyfingers are lightly flavored with espresso. Because coconut flour absorbs liquid quickly, they need to be handled carefully. The recipe recommends dipping them very quickly or drizzling the espresso over them instead of soaking them for too long.

The creamy filling is made with mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, Splenda, and vanilla extract. The whipped cream is folded into the sweetened mascarpone mixture to create a creamy filling for the tiramisu.

The tiramisu is assembled by layering the espresso-treated ladyfingers with the mascarpone cream. After the final layer of cream, the top is dusted with unsweetened cocoa powder. The dessert then needs to chill for several hours, with overnight chilling recommended in the recipe for the best texture.

Thank You for 100 Subscribers!

I am so thankful for everyone who has watched my videos, subscribed to my channel, left comments, shared my content, or simply taken the time to stop by and spend a few minutes with me.

Bariatric Living with Lisa is about more than just recipes. It is about finding ways to enjoy food, creating healthier versions of recipes, sharing bariatric-friendly ideas, and enjoying life along the way.

I am so excited to see where this journey takes us next!

Thank you for being part of the Bariatric Living with Lisa family. ❤️

Here’s to the next milestone! 🎉💯

Watch the Celebration Video

Come celebrate 100 subscribers with me and watch me make this High-Protein Low-Carb Tiramisu!

Lisa’s High Protein Low Carb Tiramisu

Nut-Free Keto Ladyfingers Recipe

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 21 ladyfingers [12]

Ingredients

  • 5 large eggs, separated (room temperature), but really needed 6 large eggs, separated.
  • ½ cup coconut flour, sifted
  • ½ cup Splenda (divided into two ¼-cup portions)
  • ¼ cup unflavored whey protein powder (helps provide structure so they don’t deflate), but really could use less, about a 1/8 cup.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize the egg whites)
  • Pinch of salt [6, 7, 13, 14, 15]

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. [6, 12, 16]
  2. Whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt and the cream of tartar using an electric mixer until foamy. Slowly rain in ¼ cup of your sweetener, whipping continuously until you achieve very stiff peaks. Set aside. [6, 7, 17, 18, 19]
  3. Beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl with the remaining ¼ cup of sweetener and vanilla extract for 3–4 minutes until thick, pale, and ribbons form. [6, 7, 20]
  4. Combine the dry ingredients by whisking the sifted coconut flour and whey protein powder together in a small bowl. [6, 21]
  5. Gently fold the mixtures together. Use a rubber spatula to fold a third of the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. Alternating in batches, gently fold in a portion of the flour mixture and the remaining egg whites. Mix very gently to avoid deflating the air bubbles. [6, 22]
  6. Pipe the ladyfingers by transferring the batter into a pastry bag fitted with a wide, round tip. Pipe 3-inch long logs onto your lined baking sheet, leaving an inch between each one. [6, 12, 23, 24]
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the tops feel lightly springy. [6, 25]
  8. Cool completely on the baking sheet before moving them. They will crisp up slightly as they cool down. [6, 26, 27]

Pro Tips for Success

  • Sift the Flour: Coconut flour is notoriously clumpy. Sifting it ensures it incorporates smoothly without leaving chalky pockets in your delicate batter.
  • Watch the Coffee Soak: If you are using these for a keto tiramisu, dip them into the espresso quickly. Coconut flour sponges soak up liquid much faster than wheat or almond flour versions and can fall apart if left submerged for more than a second or two. [1, 6, 7, 28, 29]

2. The Espresso Dip Strategy

Coconut flour acts like a dense sponge. If you submerge these ladyfingers like traditional wheat ones, they will dissolve into paste. [4]

  • The Technique: Do not submerge them. Instead, pour your espresso into a wide, shallow bowl. Take a ladyfinger and drop it into the liquid, counting “one” (about 0.5 seconds), flip it instantly, count “two”, and remove it immediately. [4, 8, 9]
  • Alternative Method: Lay all your baked ladyfingers flat in your Tiramisu dish first. Use a pastry brush or a teaspoon to gently drizzle the espresso over each cookie. This gives you total control over the moisture. [10, 11]
  • Sweetening the Espresso: Add 2 tablespoons of Granulated Splenda directly into your warm espresso before dipping to counteract the intense bitterness. [10, 11]

3. Making the Splenda Mascarpone Cream

To complete your Keto Tiramisu, replace the traditional sugar in the cream filling using this quick keto assembly: [12]

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (250g) Mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup Heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • ⅓ cup Granulated Splenda
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting) [4, 8, 10, 13, 14]

Instructions

  1. Whip the cream: In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  2. Blend the cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the room-temperature mascarpone cheese and the ⅓ cup of Splenda together until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Fold: Gently fold the whipped cream into the sweet mascarpone mixture using a rubber spatula until combined.
  4. Assemble: Layer your lightly-espresso-soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a dish. Spread half the cream on top. Add a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining cream.
  5. Chill: Dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours (overnight is best). This chilling window is mandatory for coconut flour ladyfingers to set firmly and mimic the texture of traditional Tiramisu.

What should I make to celebrate the next milestone? Let me know in the comments! 💬

Soft & Delicious Cottage Cheese Protein Cookies

Lisa Kidd

If you’re craving cookies but want something a little healthier, these Cottage Cheese Protein Cookies are going to become one of your favorites!

I know cottage cheese in cookies might sound unusual, but trust me—it creates a wonderfully soft texture while adding extra protein. Combined with rolled oats, peanut butter, and sugar-free salted caramel syrup, these cookies are hearty, satisfying, and naturally sweet without tasting “healthy.”

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how simple it is. Everything mixes together in one bowl, and they’re ready in just minutes. The biggest tip is not to overbake them. Pull them from the oven after about 11 minutes, and they’ll stay soft and tender inside.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • ½ cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
  • ¼ cup Salted Caramel Skinny Syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: Sugar-free chocolate chips or raisins

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix together the cottage cheese, oats, and peanut butter.
  3. Stir in the Skinny Syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until a thick dough forms.
  4. Fold in chocolate chips or raisins if desired.
  5. Scoop the dough onto the baking sheet using a small cookie scoop.
  6. Flatten each cookie slightly since they won’t spread much while baking.
  7. Bake for 11 minutes.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool for 5–10 minutes before enjoying.

My Tips

  • Blend the cottage cheese first if you’d like a smoother cookie.
  • Don’t overbake them—they’re best when they’re still soft in the center.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for an easy grab-and-go protein snack.

These cookies are a wonderful option for anyone following a bariatric lifestyle, trying to increase their protein intake, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment on the YouTube video and let me know if you added sugar-free chocolate chips, raisins, or another fun mix-in.

Happy baking!

– Lisa ❤️ | Bariatric Living with Lisa

Sugar-Free Frozen Strawberry Lemonade Refresher with Strawberry Cold Foam

Lisa Kidd

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer drink that’s refreshing, fruity, and sugar-free, you’ve found it!

This Sugar-Free Frozen Strawberry Lemonade Refresher with Strawberry Cold Foam has quickly become one of my favorite warm-weather treats. It’s packed with fresh strawberry flavor, perfectly tart lemonade, and topped with a creamy strawberry cold foam that makes every sip taste indulgent.

One of my favorite things about creating recipes is finding healthier alternatives to popular café drinks. This recipe delivers all the flavor without the added sugar, making it a wonderful option for anyone living a bariatric lifestyle or simply trying to make healthier choices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sugar-free
  • Bariatric-friendly
  • Quick and easy to make
  • Refreshing on hot summer days
  • Budget-friendly
  • Tastes like a specialty coffee shop drink

Ingredients

  • 1 cup frozen strawberries
  • 1 packet sugar-free lemonade
  • Water
  • Ice
  • Jordan’s Strawberry Skinny Syrup
  • ¼ cup heavy cream

Directions

  1. Add the frozen strawberries to your blender cup.
  2. Fill with water to the max fill line.
  3. Add one packet of sugar-free lemonade.
  4. Blend until smooth.
  5. Fill a mason jar with ice.
  6. Add a splash of Jordan’s Strawberry Skinny Syrup.
  7. In a separate cup, combine heavy cream with another drizzle of strawberry syrup and froth until thick and creamy.
  8. Pour the frozen strawberry lemonade over the ice.
  9. Spoon the strawberry cold foam on top.
  10. Stir together and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This drink is everything I want in a summer refresher—cold, fruity, creamy, and incredibly satisfying without all the added sugar.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave me a comment on YouTube and let me know if you tried it or added your own twist.

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!

Easy High-Protein Breakfast & Coffee Using Aldi Finds

Lisa Kidd

Some mornings call for something quick, comforting, and still supportive of a bariatric lifestyle. Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite easy Aldi breakfasts that checks all those boxes.

Protein Waffles from Aldi

I recently found protein waffles at Aldi, and they’ve quickly become a staple. Two waffles provide 12 grams of protein, and they toast up perfectly. I like to keep it simple by topping them with Sugar-Free Log Cabin Syrup—no fuss, no guilt.

Cozy French Vanilla Coffee

My coffee today was made with Barissimo French Vanilla coffee, Aldi’s brand. To make it feel like a coffeehouse treat, I added:

  • A splash of Jordan’s Iced Cinnamon Roll Skinny Syrup
  • A splash of Jordan’s Brown Sugar & Cinnamon Skinny Syrup
  • Heavy cream
  • A pinch of salted caramel salt

Stir it all together, and it’s nice, cozy, and satisfying without added sugar.

Why This Works for Bariatric Living

  • High-protein and low-sugar
  • Quick and realistic for everyday life
  • Budget-friendly Aldi finds
  • Feels indulgent without derailing goals

If you’re navigating post-op life or simply trying to eat with intention, meals like this prove that simple can still be delicious.

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.