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Protein drinks count toward hydration?

Surgery
Bariatric sleeve
Date
Sept 23, 2025
I’ve been confused by hearing differing opinions about this. Does the protein drink count toward hydration? This seems like a good way to add both proteins and hydration at the same time. However I understand that it has a lot of calories. Could you just drink 1 protein drink and count it toward a meal and hydration? I too struggle with getting enough water. I personally halve my vitamin water bottles and add water. (I don’t want artificial sweeteners which aren’t good for you.) but I am lucky to get 48 oz a day. Not having enough hydration makes you more constipated and that hurts.
 
I was told that they count towards my daily hydration. But it never really feels like it. It's kinda like when you drink coffee, you don't really feel less thirsty. I get like that from protein shakes. I bought one of those Owala water bottles off amazon and I just keep it right next to me all day. I bring it in the car with me when I go somewhere too. It makes it a little easier to take little sips throughout the day
 
I’ve been confused by hearing differing opinions about this. Does the protein drink count toward hydration? This seems like a good way to add both proteins and hydration at the same time. However I understand that it has a lot of calories. Could you just drink 1 protein drink and count it toward a meal and hydration? I too struggle with getting enough water. I personally halve my vitamin water bottles and add water. (I don’t want artificial sweeteners which aren’t good for you.) but I am lucky to get 48 oz a day. Not having enough hydration makes you more constipated and that hurts.
I was told it counts towards my liquid goals.
 
I’ve been confused by hearing differing opinions about this. Does the protein drink count toward hydration? This seems like a good way to add both proteins and hydration at the same time. However I understand that it has a lot of calories. Could you just drink 1 protein drink and count it toward a meal and hydration? I too struggle with getting enough water. I personally halve my vitamin water bottles and add water. (I don’t want artificial sweeteners which aren’t good for you.) but I am lucky to get 48 oz a day. Not having enough hydration makes you more constipated and that hurts.
My protien powder has no calories. Maybe your drinking the wrong kind. I add powder to either water or soy milk because I can't do cows milk.
Heather
 
I was told it counts towards my liquid goals.
I was told water is water and must be considered separate from "other liquids" you may count. Regardless of whether you're drinking a liquid protein diet or another type of protein measurement, WATER has a completely different effect on your metabolism. You might find it helpful to go the the American Bariatrics Society (the national group that sponsors THIS group) and read what the experts post.

I can tell anyone for a fact that following the hydration guidelines set by medical experts will lead to faster and more effective loss of fat and other burned-off body waste.
 
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