Grrrrrrrrr, we wrote this long post and it vanished, so we'll try to remember what all we had in it.
 
First, Boost is not a good option.  Too high in carbs and sugars both.  As for bouillon, also not a good choice because it is so high in sodium.  Whatever protein supplements you choose, don't buy a lot of any particular one until after surgery.  What we would suggest is getting a variety to try . . because odds are you really aren't going to like many of them.  They are a necessity though, especially in the early few months.  Keep your receipts because most healthfood stores will do refunds for products you don't like.
 
For us, our personal favorite is ProFect (http://www.protica.com) because it's a mere 2.9 oz to get 25 grams of high quality protein with no carbs or sugars.  4 or 5 sips and it's finished.  Next is Unjury chicken soup because it's a nice change from the sweet drinks.  Many like EAS Advantage or Isopure.  Both are good proteins.  Then there's always the Stallone protein puddings (GNC carries these).  None are great, but they're good quality and they serve their purpose to supplement the shortage that you NEED.  Remember that . .  protein is an absolute necessity!  You won't have to use supplements forever. They're for just that  .. . supplementation for any shortage you don't get from foods. 
 
Hope some of this helps.
 
 Message 8 of 9 in Discussion 

From: Paintmethin
Sent: 6/26/2008 8:40 AM

I ready your note and could identify completely with the want to be "ready" when you get home. My medical program nutritionist got me onto SmartForme and they have an array of products that are GOOD tasting. They have juice box size of protein drink (20gr/drink) in chocolate, berry and vanilla. They also have juice type drink mixes, soups, snacks, etc. They are a company that is for only bariatric patients so I recommend you check them out. As far as how much you'll need....a lot of variety is good and suggest you get the biggest gram per drink as possible. Some of those drugstore/supermarket brands have fewer than 12 grams per drink which for me, wasn't worth it. Vitalady also sells individual serving sizes so you can try several flavors without buying te whole container. I am migrating to the nectars (juice type drinks) rather than the shakes (the creamy milk tasting). I recommend also having broth based soups, diet drinks, crystal light packets for water flavor...and sugar free popsicles and sugar free jello (especially used the first two weeks after surgery). Best wishes. 

 Message 9 of 9 in Discussion 

From: Baggy-Pants5
Sent: 6/26/2008 6:38 PM

There's always low sodium/fat free broth.  if you have something like a Trader Joe's, Sprouts, Whole Foods you can buy broth.  Even low sodium broth/stock can be found in regular grocery stores.  Just remember, there's always the long route of making your own broth.  (Make and then freeze in individual containers)   That way you can control the sodium and there's recipes abounding on the internet for stuff like this.