This is not an easy subject:

http://meal-replacements.ultimatefat...-isolates.html

http://meal-replacements.ultimatefat...isolates2.html

in general whey protein is easy to assimilate. Only the purists get the most refined types (bodybuilders).

If yours has lactose then you can take a Lactaid product with it.

Normal protein found in raw foods is complex and requires significant digestion.

I am concerned that kmeb has lost some digestive capability because of atrophy. So predigested whey offers a chance to save her muscles and heart.
Personally I'd mix it into the Ensure that she already takes. Since that is what she is used to. I would not mix it with chicken broth...that has to be nasty tasting.

Hi mrsd!

This is great info on the various forms of whey protein! I have never seen this so clearly stated before now! Thanks for helping to clarify!

Kmeb, Offering positive thoughts and prayers for success in attempting protein supplementation.

Hi - I met with a dietician at the hospital couple week s ago - I've having a much more difficult time with the ensure (they say its the fat content) and broth is easiest thing for me to digest.... so the powders I'm trying (just one at a time though) are mostly hospital brand I have to special order... broth my stomach will tolerate but of course alone - has only 5 calories... Mrs D - I know the protein is whey protein - so thats good from what you have said (also, it doesnt taste like anything at all!) - they want me to get down one ensure a day in the am and then little shots of broth with the powder during the day - the nausea is so bad all the time that we're going for something that goes down super easy... my doc said that my small intestines are seeing the protein powder as "food" and its going to take them a long time to adust - if they do....

DeJaVu - if you do have gastroparesis (GP) and its post-viral - it will probably let up in a couple of months - so thats a positive.... have you seen a doc yet? Also, if you just google "Gastroparesis Diet" - there are a couple of good ones out there for people who can still eat mush or some types of food - they may help you out for now! (on my autonomic stuff - I also have autonomic cardiac and BP issues - are you experiencing any issues here? could be a clue for you to help your docs)

Mrs D is right - raw foods are a big fat no no!!!!! Very hard to digest!