What's my problem??

I don't know what my problem lately is, but I seem to be having a hard time with my drinking, eating timing. I am still (trying) to wait 30 minutes between the two, but am not doing a very good job. I know this is causing me to be hungrier because the food is 'washing' out of my pouch quicker. Am I doing anything more damaging than that? Stretching my pouch? I've got to get this simple little problem under control! Caren

I too have that problem. I seem to get so thirsty right after eating that I often forget to wait. I was wondering the same as you, if I am stretching my pouch. I really don't think that I eat more often or more than usual, nor do I think I get hungry faster. So I am hoping that no damage is done.

Caren, My understanding is that the only thing you are doing is getting hungry quicker. Some people get sick if they drink too soon after meals, but, that can't be your problem or you wouldn't do it. I don't do well with this either. Especially, in the mornings. I don't have time to eat then wait 1/2 hour to drink my coffee. I've heard that only soda stretches the anastomosis (the opening to the pouch) due to the carbonation. Lori

I usually take a sip of water after I eat just to rinse my mouth out, maybe 2 if I'm really thirsty. One thing that I do (if I'm at home anyway) is rinse my mouth out with water and spit it out. That seems to do the trick. Another thing is to keep busy so you aren't focusing on how thirsty you are. One other thing you could try is to keep the sugar-free hard candies available and suck on one, that will get your own saliva juices going.

Caren, I don't know if it will help you, but this is what works for me. I drink as much water as I can before I eat. I don't wait more than 15 minutes after my last sip to start eating. I find if I am well hydrated before eating, I don't get thirsty. I then can (and do) wait 1 hour after I eat before I start drinking. Seven

Caren, Are you still focusing on dense proteins? They will keep you feeling fuller for longer. And also having good fats with your protein can help too. How often are you eating? I eat about 6-7 times a day. 3 protein shakes - first thing in the morning, mid-afternoon and before bed. I have 3 meals and sometimes a snack if I'm pushing dinner back. I don't eat based on hunger. I eat based on the clock. This seems to keep my blood sugar level and I don't get famished. When I do go for a long period without eating...I tend to overdo or eat too fast and that gets me into trouble. You might want to try drinking water as much as possible as fast as possible ("water loading"), you can get a feeling of fullness that lasts 15-25 minutes. If you are eating "soft foods" you will get hungry too soon and be hungry before your next meal which can lead to snacking, overeating, etc. Kathy

I start every single morning with two full bottles of water. I set them out on the table the night before, next to my vitamins. I find if I start the day well hydrated, then I'm not overly thirsty after I eat. After I drink my water, I follow it in another hour with 8-16 oz of my hot chocolate protein. I drink water the rest of the day, and usually get in a minimum of 80 oz a day. I found I had more post-eating thirst when I was a newer post-op, and controlled it by eating a SF popsicle as my after dinner dessert. Now that it's winter and I'm cold all the time, I've given up the popsicles! Debra M.

Thanks everyone for the great suggestions - I will definately use them. I appreciate the support! Caren