Here's a fluid intake question.

I know that you should try to get about 6 oz an hour. Is there a problem with drinking more than that? I can do about 16 ounces in an hour. Is that bad? Can liquids stretch your pouch? I don't feel like I am pushing the water in, I just take a sip, wait, take a sip, wait... What are all of you experiencing, intake wise? p.s. I don't drink 1/2 hour before eating and wait an hour after eating before drinking again, so I know I am following those guidelines.

As far as liquids go, my NUT said to think of your new pouch like a funnel. You can pour a bunch of fluid in but it will bottle neck as it drains through. I can tell you from experience, that's a pretty accurate description. I've forgotten myself a couple of times and taken some big gulps of water or crystal light. I'd feel it stop in my throat to the point where I'd feel like gagging, then if I just sit tight for a minute it does go down. Now this isn't a pleasant thing to have to go through, but fluids alone won't stretch your pouch according to my surgeon. If you have food in there and you drink, it can make whatever is in your stomach expand as it absorbs the liquid and that can stretch your pouch. Or worse yet, the possibility of rupturing it is there too. That's the main reason they say not to drink till 30-60 mins after eating. So far, I've never felt that uncomfortable "I'm gonna bust" feeling just from drinking. It'll take some trial and error to see what your pouch can handle. Good luck! Donna

Hey Naomi....you can't stretch your pouch with water. I don't measure the amount in a certain period of time, I wasn't told to. I was told, sip, sip, sip, but not half hour before or after meals. As long as you aren't feeling ill from drinking too fast, I'm sure you're fine. Take care! Pam