To count or not to count

 I'm with you!

For the past 2 weeks I've been on a tea kick. Caffeinated tea sweetened with splenda. The only other fluid I get in daily is the 4oz of milk I have with my protein shake. I don't go to the bathroom any more or any less than I do when I drink water only. If I couldn't/shouldn't count the tea then I would think I'd have shriveled up and died by now since without the tea ounces I'm only getting in 4 oz per day. IMO ounces are ounces.

  I think you have proven that liquids really are liquids! Thanks for your response!

 I also go by how I feel, how light my urine is, and I consider all fluids "fluids". 

When you research on line you find sooooo many different points of view. To me that proofs that there really is no upper or lower limit that everyone requires.

Everybody is different.

 I am so new out, but some day I will be able to do just that...stop counting and just keep drinking depending on how I feel. Thank you!

 I agree with what the others said.  When I was early post-op I did count, but I dont any longer.  I'm a water drinker so it's not a problem for me.  I go more by how I feel, and as Inge said, how my urine looks.  My PCP told me a long time ago that we should all drink enough during the day so that our urine is almost clear. 

 I was a little upset after surgery tha****er didn't taste good any more or feel good in my stomach, but we are a team once again! I always drank a lot and water was my preference. Thanks for responding!

 In the very beginning, it's probably best to avoid caffeine.  As soon as you have some experience and know you are well hydrated, stop worrying about it.  Caffeine is a mild diuretic and if you always drink it, the effect is a constant.

I drink coffee and diet soda.  Every day.  The only thing I don't drink is sugar.

 Appreciate you responding!

 I'm with the "liquids is liquids camp."   Hell, if I didn't count my two Diet Cokes and cups of tea a day, I'd be a dead woman.

Love your avatar!