Question:
Which is the MOST important?

When you are 2-3 weeks post-op and you can't get in all the water and protein in, which is the most impotant of the 2 if you don't have room for both.    — Cindee A. (posted on November 14, 2001)

November 13, 2001
Water, water, water!!!! You can live 30 days without a bite of food, but only 5 days without water. I know exactly what you mean by only having room for one or the other. Your body has about a year's supply of protein stored in its cells anyway, so you won't see problems from protein deficiency until at least 6 months out. If you don't get enough water, you'll end up in the ER being treated for dehydration. (I speak from experience!)
   — [Anonymous]

November 13, 2001
Definately water! Dehydration is one of the main reasons postop's end up back in the hospital! Try using a timer on a watch to help remind you when to eat something. Then wait half an hour and start sipping again. My watch timer has been a godsend! P.S. Three months out and it does get better!
   — Angela B.

November 14, 2001
WATER! I got dehydrated in my first week and was readmitted back to the hospital! Protein supplements are among big debate throughout this support site...but everyone agrees we need water more than anything. So, drink up and catch up on protein later! Good Luck to you!
   — Kristin R.

November 14, 2001
Both are important, but the water is the easier to get down when you are newly post-op. I drank more than I ate and ended up back in the hospital, mal-nourished and dehydrated. If you are having problems get in touch with your surgeon. Neci
   — Nynese W.