Caffeine question

That's a good way to look at it!

Has anyone ever used or heard of the caffeine patch?

I encourage caution with your post-surgery caffeine intake.  I over-indulged and am going through some gastritis issues right now.  Caffeine can definitely contribute to gastritis/ulcers and it can be trouble if you have something happen in your remnant stomach because that won't be able to be scoped.  I think even a patch could have an effect, similar to an NSAID patch.

Take it easy and go slow.  Be aware of any signs of discomfort after having your coffee.  I too thought I was fine with caffeine and I'm finding out that I am not.  :D  

Jen

I'm going to delve more into this now, thanks for the caution

There's some evidence that caffeine interferes with iron absorption, so it's best not to have any a couple of hours around your iron supplement.

Good to know, I will keep that in mind.

My plan says no caffeine for 2 months post-op. Because of possible cramping and increasing hunger. Coffee never caused me to eat more. I am 4 weeks out today and had another follow up with my surgeon. I asked him if I could have coffee (real) vs waiting another month. He said he didn't see why I couldn't have it..just not to go overboard with it. Then he shushed me not to let the NUT know he told me I could!!! lol

I'm going to ask my Doc next time I see him.  Thanks for the info

I drink coffee but at first one cup was all I could do. As time has gone by I drink at least two a day with no ill effects.

I strictly followed the "no caffeine" rule until just recently with my 9 month surgery anniversary. Now the only caffeine intake I have is with my Chike protein coffee drink in the morning that I REALLY enjoy  I make sure to take my iron in the evening to avoid conflict with absorbing it. So far so good. No plans though to go "crazy" with it though. I have come too far for that