Question:
Is it OK to guzzle water?

I am 3+ months postop and am able to drink water at a pretty quick pace. When I was newly postop, I could only take tiny sips. Considering the amount of water I need to drink in a day, I find this to be really helpful. But is it ok to do? It won't stretch my pouch, will it? I know my pouch is still intact because my capacity for solid foods is very limited as it's been since the start. Any ideas?    — Donna L. (posted on March 18, 2002)

March 18, 2002
I am 8 weeks post op and can guzzle water too. I was told that since it was liquids it was ok. In the begining I was only able to sip too.
   — Melody F.

March 18, 2002
Since water is liquid, it won't stretch your pouch. It's only when we try cramming a bunch of solid food into our tiny tummies that we stretch them. Gulp away!
   — Terissa R.

March 18, 2002
I am 5 weeks post op and I can drink water quickly..not necessarily guzzle but getting there. I asked the Dr. about it and was told that liquids would absolutley not stretch out the pouch. So don't worry, Jennifer
   — Jennifer Z.

March 18, 2002
I would still try not to "guzzle" water. I was recently watching a show on competitive eating (and we thought we had issues :) anyway one of the things these people do to increase the amount they can eat is to drink water as fast as they can to strech thier stomaches. Now I know we no longer have the pyloric valve to hold everything in but depending on how fast you drink it I think in theory you might be able to strech it some. I doubt there would be much streaching though. But I wouldn't go a full glass in one big draught either.
   — Jennifer H.