Question:
I ALWAYS FEEL POORLY AFTER EATING--WILL IT EVER STOP?

I try to eat slowly, small bites, etc., yet every time I eat I don't feel well afterwards. I was prepared to change my eating habits but I didn't expect to hate the prospect of eating. I want to enjoy what little I can eat.    — Penny W. (posted on March 30, 2001)

March 30, 2001
I attend several support meetings and several post op patients have talked about that. I guess the main thing is.. how far post op are you? How long as this been going on? Can you pin point it to particular food etc? I understand from most people this happens a few times after surgery.. the first being when you first start with liqueds and then once you get to pureed foods and then again when you start with solids. I understand after every phase if does get better.
   — Dawn R.

March 30, 2001
I am only 4-1/2 weeks post-op, and I can tell you that it DOES get better. My second week and third week was exactly as you mention. The thought of eating was NOT pleasant. I ate slowly, chewed well, etc, just like you. But this week I have had NO problems whatsoever. And guess what? I only THOUGHT that I was chewing well and eating slowly. I slowed down considerably from the slow pace I was eating at, and chewed even more, and WA-LA, no more problems. I also think that my stomach has healed even more so in the past week and that has helped. Also, I know that everyone preached at me about not eating and drinking at the same time. I thought that it was to avoid washing the food through the pouch too quickly. As it turns out, the food doesn't want to come up so much if I avoid drinking while I'm eating, so for me it has nothing to do with how fast the food goes through. Eating is becoming much more enjoyable now. Remember, every day will get better!!
   — Toni B.

March 30, 2001
I know how you feel, I was the same way. I wouldn't even eat if I had to go somewhere because I knew I wouldn't feel good. It lasted for about the first 6-8 weeks and then it eventually stopped. I am now 9 months postop and it only happens if I drink milk, or eat a little too much. It will get better!
   — Kelly P.

March 30, 2001
I also know what you are going thru. I am 3 weeks post op yesterday. All of a sudden food is not making me sick, and I am able to enjoy what I am eating. I hope it gets better for you soon.
   — JazzBear111