BM Issues

Had DS surgery on Jan 6th.  I have had loose diarrhea every morning since surgery.  Have been taking Benefiber 3 times daily and 4 probiobitics tabs a day according to doctor's nurse.  It did firm up some but still struggling with this every morning which is very restricting until I feel have emptied and no more cramping,  so basically am stuck at home near the bathroom until almost noon daily.  I am happy with my weight loss...almost 50 lbs since surgery but really getting tired of dealing with this daily.  So my question is how long before I can expect to have more normal bm.  Tired of not being able to do anything until late morning/lunch time. 

You might try eliminating dairy and then any gluten you're eating to see if you have a sensitivity to one of them or both. Also, try increasing your calcium citrate to 2,400 mg a day if you aren't already doing that.

--gina

I agree with MajorMom about cutting out the dairy and increasing your calcium.

Avoid any sugar alcohols.

Why are you taking benefiber if you have loose stools? That could be a big part of your problem. I dont recall ever reading about any DSer taking fiber shortly after surgery. If you later get constipated, then consider the benefiber, but that is a whole new topic.

Had this issue for awhile also BUT once I was able to get more of my vitamins in this stopped... or was at least less often. May I ask what vitamins you are taking?

I had this same issue  and was given the same advise...by Mom, to increase my calcium and it has changed my life. I was so miserable the first two months pooping my brains out. Now I go normal BM's once a day. I can really tell a difference if I miss my daily calcium. Listen to these ladies they know what they are talking about. 

Thanks for all the comments.  I am currently taking 4 800mg calcium tabs a day so hesitant to increase to more but will discuss with doc.  When I was told to add benefiber I was afraid would make matters worse but it did actually help.  It seems we ds patients don't get enough fiber in our diet.  I did benefiber which was working pretty good. But when I used up the first container thought would save a few bucks and bought Wal-Mart brand.  It not only didn't work as well I also had bad indigestion all day every day so went back to benefiber brand.  I don't use much dairy at all as was and still lactose intolerant.  Also don't consume much gluten either.  I see my surgeon next week so hope he or nurse can offer some advice to improve situation.  Will post about it.  Thanks again.  Also how do I add my surgeon's name to my signature?

I take 1200mg three times a day. 

- Click My OH drop down (top right of screen)
- Medical History (near bottom of menu that appears)
- Enter your surgeon's name

Are you taking oral iron?  That firms things up too.  Immodium is another option if all else fails.

I, too, agree with dairy.  If you're mixing protein shakes with milk, try switching to water.  I can handle most any dairy EXCEPT straight milk...so instant pudding, milk and protein drinks, etc, are all out for me.  Cooking it does something that makes it okay.  Also - try upping your calcium dosage.  That made a huge difference for me, too.