cement

Hi Guys, I have not had suregry yet nor do I have a date but it seems to be moving fast. One worry I have is about the consitpation. I read about the differnt protein bars and drinks and some I have had before.  If I am on them for a few days my insides turn to cement. How the hell am I going to avoid constipation? I love to drink water but it does not seem to help. Actually eating food that is crappy for me ensures a smooth time in the bathroom. That is just not going to work in the future. What do you do? I have had some real painful 'wish I could die instead' situatuations. Marc

An old stand by is prune juice.  Don't overdo it because of the sugar content.  But, most people don't acquire that much of a taste for the stuff.  It's palatable and easy to go down.

I use Milk of Magnesia, its non habit forming and gentle on your system.  If I skip a day without going then I take the Milk of Magnesia works like a charm. Also some take a daily regiment of fiber, like Fiber Choice, Fiber Lax, etc.. But this can cause extra gas and cramping. Good luck. C'ya Bob

Flaxseed supplements can help as well.

I usually use a corkscrew 

Pre-op I used Psyllium husks. Worked pretty well.

Speaking of which, can I use it now?

Sure.  If the gas don't both you (and your neighbors), as long as you stay hydrated, psyllium should work fine. Elderly folks who take too much Metamucil with too little fluid and use too little of their brains sometimes develop esophageal and/or intestinal blockages from overenthusiatic use of psyllium supplements, but even in us fluid-challenged post-ops, I would find this difficult to imagine happening, especially if it were part of a deliberate regimen to counteract constipation. /Steve

Thanks guys I will keep the list.  On this I would rather be prepared than yelling for help when it is WAY toooo late. Just one part of post surgery I am not thrilled about.

just get a DS and some baby wipes

I would suggest you speak to your surgeon.  My doc does not want me taking any Milk of Magnesia at this stage in my recovery, he has me taking a tablespoon of benefiber twice a day and pericolace if you don't go for more than 2 days.

Jim