Question:
Can we drink with a straw?

Can we use a straw for all our liquids? Does it put too much air in our stomach?    — Mimi R. (posted on September 5, 2002)

September 5, 2002
I know you will be getting alot of mixed responses on this, but, my dtr and Nutrionist say YES! I find that it helps me not GULP my liquids and drink slower. Good Luck. Heather (Open RNY 8/15, down 26lbs)
   — heathercross

September 5, 2002
Some surgeons say it's bad for you - some say it isn't. For me personally I can get my liquids in ALOT better if I use a straw. In fact I can get them in AMAZINGLY better if I use a straw. I haven't noticed that it puts any extra air at all in my tummy. I never had any trouble drinking with a straw and it causing air in my tummy pre-op either. We're all different and I say see what your surgeon has to say about it. For me, though, the straw is a lifesaver! Best wishes to you!
   — ronascott

September 5, 2002
I had a MUCH easier time in the beginning with a straw. I had the tendency of drinking a lot of air with my water. So a straw helped me slow down and not suck in as much air.
   — Robby E.

September 5, 2002
I am a chronic dribbler, choker and sluper if I do not have a straw. I also have very sensitive teeth and cold liquids (what I prefer) hurt! Straws put the liquid where it is supposed to go (in my mouth) rather than down my chin and onto my shirt. I do not gulp with straws, I sip and it is the only reason, really, that I can get enough water in. I really need a straw and I read in the beginning that we were not to use them, I thought "whatever" I'll just be careful. Well, I was and still am. Whatever WORKS for ya!
   — Karen R.

September 5, 2002
I tried to drink without a straw in the beginning, because some advised that. But I couldn't get my water in, so I tried a straw and have very little problems now getting it in.
   — Cheryl S.

September 5, 2002
I thought I might add that I do those lame sputtering things BECAUSE of the amount of air I suck in when NOT using a straw. When I use the straw, I find I just consume liquid- no air.... so I think the surgeon being worried about you sucking in air; may want to reconsider- at least in my case. You really cannot take me out in public w/o a straw!
   — Karen R.

September 5, 2002
I HAVE NOT HAD WLS YET BUT.... I HEARD TRY USING A TODDLERS SIPPY CUP! I AM GOING TO BUY ONE JUST TO SEE HOW I LIKE IT!
   — CYNDI B.