Question:
Why can't I eat citrus and does that include Diet Snapple Lemonade?

I don't understand why I can not have citrus fruits ever. Is it the citrus acid? or the pulp, membranes, etc....? I am craving OJ. I am 3 weeks post op and am affraid to put lemons or limes in my water or drink Diet Snapple Pink Lemonade my favorite? I have read on this site many people have had citrus juice dilluted. Anyone know why? I can't have fruit for 5 more weeks either.....    — nani68 (posted on July 18, 2003)

July 17, 2003
I think it is because of the natural sugar in the fruit. Most people concentrate on protein. Have you tried the Fruit 2.0 lemon. It is good. But the peach is the best. I drink it warm and it even smells like a fresh peach. There are probably other reasons why you can't have fruit. In my case the acidity of the fruit causes acid in the stomach or the fiber could cause you to lose nutrients. Follow the dr's plan
   — snicklefritz

July 17, 2003
Some docs allow citrus but you have to be very careful to remove all the membrane when eating things like oranges or grapefuit. It can cause an obstruction. And being a nurse with stomach problems, I know the acid can be very irritating. As far as juice goes, it is very high in sugar content (even natural) A lot of people dump on sugar and that is why we dilute it, say 4 oz O.J. and 4 oz water (pulp free)
   — Delores S.

July 18, 2003
I think everyone has good points, about the membrane and the sugars. But my surgeon said it is because of the acidity in juices and fruits like oranges and grapefruits. Remember that you have open sores in your stomach that are healing. The acid may irritate them or allow them not to heal as well. Think of pouring grapefruit juice on a papercut... OUCH!
   — Angela G.

July 18, 2003
i think you can at some point, but for now no. My doc told me that they did a study and found citric acid early on can cause ulcers on the exit area of the new pouch. good luck.
   — gary viscio

July 18, 2003
I lived off of water mixed with lime juice and sweetened slighly with stevia from weeks 2-3 to 12 after my surgery, with no problems what so ever. If your concerned, call your surgeons office, or your dietician, and see what they recommend.
   — eaamc

July 18, 2003
My doc and nutritionist both said citrus is fine. I've been eating all friuts since month 2 with NO trouble at all. But then, I don't have trouble with anything! If you're sensitive, you may want to listen to others!
   — jen41766

July 20, 2003
I know what you mean about craving OJ, you have my sympathy. My doc's nutritionist said ok to do sugar free Tang that early ( I halved the water to make the orange flavor stronger.) I also do orange jello while still warm - put it in a tea cup and sip it from teaspoons slowly. Feels almost like a "comfort food" Good Luck!
   — Deborah F.