A Dietitian Reviews Popular TikTok Bariatric Recipes

Article By: Annabel Arbelaez, Dietetic Intern

Co-Author: Rachel Ignomirello, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LDN

Rachel Ignomirello is a Bariatric Dietitian and Board-Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management.

In a world where social media is booming, TikTok has become a place for a variety of trends. The app has emerged as a platform for new, innovative content. More specifically, people have begun to share their culinary inspirations on this app. As we scroll through the “For You” page, we see recipes catered towards everyone. In today’s blog, we have gathered viral recipes found on the bariatric side of TikTok. Many of these recipes are shared by individuals who have undergone bariatric surgeries and are sharing their nutrition journey on social media.

First, we will explore the viral trend of cottage cheese... Cottage cheese is a great additive to a bariatric diet due to its high protein content. Typically, one cup of low-fat cottage cheese provides around 25 grams of protein. You will find cottage cheese to be easier to digest due to its soft consistency. This can be especially important in the initial stages post-surgery. As we see in the following two recipes, cottage cheese can be a versatile ingredient used in a variety of recipes. Here are two dietitian-approved cottage cheese trends you need to try.

1) Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl (@ShayClick).

  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1⁄2 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 serving turkey pepperoni
  • 1⁄2 cup marinara sauce
  • Italian seasoning

Mix all the ingredients into a bowl and microwave for 30 seconds.

2) High Protein Taco Dip (@takingmylifebackat42).

  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1⁄4 cup of your favorite salsa

This dip can be added to a quesadilla as filling, eaten as is, or topped on your favorite crackers.

Next, we will explore the ever-so-popular “Water Tok” trend. Water Tok is a trend where people are creating and sharing water recipes with added ingredients including sugar-free syrups and drink enhancers. Fluid is extremely important when it comes to a bariatric lifestyle. When you undergo bariatric surgery, your reduced stomach capacity can make it harder to meet daily fluid requirements. It’s easy to understand why dehydration is the most common complication after bariatric surgery.

Furthermore, water is necessary for digestion and can aid in the absorption of nutrients. Even though plain water is best for the body, making water more appealing may increase water intake throughout the day — all while helping people avoid sugary drinks like soda. Here are three delicious water recipes to help reach your daily 64-ounces!

These recipes are normally added to 40-ounces of water.

3) Ocean Water Recipe (@jess_on_mainstreet).

  • 1 pump sugar-free coconut flavored syrup, such as Torani
  • 1 Sonic zero sugar ocean water flavored packet

4) Caramel Apple Inspired Water (@theoriginalmochababy).

  • 1 Jolly Rancher sugar-free green apple water packet
  • 2 pumps sugar-free vanilla caramel cream syrup, such as Jordan’s Skinny Syrup

5) Mountain Dew Water (@takingmylifebackat42).

  • 1 Tang sugar-free water packet
  • 1 pump sugar-free lime syrup
  • 1 Skittles kiwi lime sugar-free water packet

Finally, everyone enjoys a sweet treat! These last recipes show some bariatric-friendly desserts that are very efficient and easy to make. Sugary items may cause dumping syndrome in bariatric patients. Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine, causing symptoms such as severe cramping and diarrhea.

If you have diabetes, too much processed sugar can also make your blood sugar go out of control, causing rapid spikes and drops. To avoid these situations, it’s best to opt for healthier treats like fruit. The recipes below are great alternatives to processed desserts or sugary snacks. They are high in protein and satisfy that sweet tooth!

6) Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse (@takingmylifebackat42).

In a mason jar, add:

  • 11oz vanilla protein shake, such as Premier Protein
  • An entire packet of sugar-free chocolate pudding
  • 2 scoops of powdered peanut butter, such as PB2

Then, thoroughly shake up the jar. Put it in the fridge for 2 hours, then enjoy!

7) Edible Cookie Dough (@jakecohen).

  • 1-pound low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1⁄4 cup maple syrup (can modify and choose sugar-free as desired)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1⁄2 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla, then purée until very smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the almond flour and protein powder until well incorporated, then fold in the chocolate chips. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

In conclusion, TikTok can be an insightful way to gain new recipe ideas. The app can cater to unique dietary needs including a bariatric diet. It’s important to remember that nutrition information within social media may not be reliable and suitable for every individual. Patients should follow-up with their healthcare team regularly after bariatric surgery and consult their dietitian for any dietary or recipe questions — including ones from TikTok!

BariMelts provides general recommendations, not to be construed as medical advice. Please consult your doctor.


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