SODA??

I stayed away from soda for the first 4 years, not for any particular reason other then I really lost my taste for it.

I couldn't stand diet sodas so it was no big loss.  Then I tasted a coke zero.  First time I really liked a diet soda.  I started drinking one or 2 a day with no problems but when I saw my new surgeon (original surgeon retired) he about blew a gasket when I told him I drank soda.  So I figured it was no big deal and I stopped.

No I mix sugar free drink mix with some sparkling water, just enough to give it a little fizz.  Sometimes I use seltzer water.  About 50/50.  I haven't rode that past him because I don't see him for a while but it doesn't seem to be doing any harm and I actually think it's better for me because I am getting less sweeteners, even though I always dilute the drink mix with twice as much water to begin with.  I just don't care for plain water.

It is funny when I get to work with my bottles of water and sparkling water and drink mix.  It looks like I am doing some kind of chemistry experiment.  

I haven't drank soda since having WLS except one time.  I didn't drink my one soda until I was around 18 months post-op.  I drank it and had lost the taste for it.  It tasted chemical and the carbonation bothered my pouch.  I drink water, iced tea and Crystal Lite and don't miss soda at all.

BTW, check out the OH Conference since you posted about it.  If you're going to go, the early bird discount ends on 3/27, so buy your tickets before then.  You'll make friends and create memories that will last a long time.

Thanks. .. got tickets a month ago :)

I have a 20 oz bottle of diet coke on my desk right now.  I bought it 3 days ago and have taken about 3 sips.  I'm just no longer a fan.  If I drink too much at one time, it hurts.  I also have a bottle of water on my desk.  Now, that, I have to set a timer so that I remember to sip it throughout the day.  Coffee is my drink of choice, and there is none of that on my desk at the moment because I'm trying to get in more water.  I don't believe that soda stretches our stomachs.  I do believe that it has no nutritional value and can be dehydrating because of the sodium and caffeine content.

Nope.  The sugar variety isn't a great option and the sugar-free varieties aren't great either.  So I just skip it.  

I do when I get a craving, so once or twice a month maybe.  Diet Coke, Coke Zero, or the Dr. Pepper that's 15c a serving.  I enjoy the belching that comes with the fizz, but that's just me!

I do not believe it stretches anything, but since you posted a few days ago about wanting to lose weight, I would try giving it up and see if it stops your cravings and helps you stay on plan. Many people drink soda with no ill effects, but I believe it does affect some of us negatively.