Question:
Why can't we drink anything when we eat

I have been told since the beginning that I could not drink anything while I eat. Well this is very hard for me and I was wondering why it is that way. How long do I have to go without drinking anything? Thank you for your advice and help!!    — Crystal D. (posted on July 10, 2002)

July 10, 2002
I think the "real" reason for this is so the food will stay in your small stomach longer, so you feel full longer. The water can "wash" the food out of your stomach. The reason most surgeons say not to drink before or during a meal is because the H20 will take up too much room in your small stomach, and you will not be able to get enough nourishment. I think you should just take a sip or two if you feel like you need it, I do sometimes, and I haven't had any problems. Good luck!
   — eahutchins

July 10, 2002
Water causes some foods to expand [like rice} and there is very little room in your pouch.I am 14 months post-op and I can only sip liquids when I eat certain foods.
   — Brian G.

July 10, 2002
This was my surgeons response to a similar question on his support group website: No drinking with meals, forever, if possible for 2 reasons. Early on it causes dumping to drink with meals. Later it washes food out of pouch letting you eat more and gain weight. Stop eating when you are full and drink after meals . A good habit forever. Good luck
   — Heather K.

July 10, 2002
Exactly what they said.....My surgeon suggested no drinking 30-45 mins. before meals and none for an hour after. There is a cool website that explains alot of things....however, this doctors opinions differ from my surgeon....also due what your doctor tells you. Pouch for Dummies @ www.shelby.net/wizards/larger
   — Sharon H.

July 10, 2002
Crystal, When you drink with your meals, You make a soup out of your food in your stomach and it is easier to push thru. You want the food to stay in your stomach as long as possible to keep you from getting hungry earlier. <p> also if you fill up with water before you eat, You will also keep the food in your stomach as long as possible.
   — Kathy H.

July 12, 2002
I drink when I eat! I got dehydrated when I had to wait so long "before" then "so long" after meals. It just did'nt work for me. And I'm still down 148 pounds with 42 more to go! But I will be honest and say, that I try to drink "just as little as I can" with meals. So at least I am trying. ;)
   — Danmark