So, before surgery the 64oz Water intake for the day was basically a walk in the park. After surgery, I am having difficulty getting in all 64oz. I mean between decaf tea, popsicles, water, crystal light, etc - I'm really struggling. I think my fear is gulping too big of a sip, but the other problem is I feel like to get it all in I should have one of those big hats that people use for beer with the straw from the top to the mouth! Any tips for getting it all in?

Also, they say you can tell if you're hydrated enough by the color of your urine, mine is clear so should I still be so concerned?

Hi Lori,

I had the same issue, omg I can't even tell you! I cried like a baby for days because I couldn't drink Water the way I wanted too. I drove my poor friend Missy on here crazy with texts, LOL.

As long as you are sipping on the water all day you will be fine. NOOO gulping! I also suggest buying gatorade for these early stages, it replenishes any loss of electrolites, including potassium that we lose.

Hang in there, you are going to drink normal in no time. Its just now your new stomache is healing and you don't want to traumitize it with so much at one time. Goooo easy, drink all day, but sip!

Yes, the color of your urine and also you can grap a piece of your skin (on your lower arm) pull it up and let it go. If it doesn't 'bounce' back you are dehydrated. If it snaps right back, your good!

You are going to be just fine, pace yourself and take care,

Thanks for the info! I guess all is well - clear urine and bouncy skin! Yippee! LOL

sip, sip, sip

I reads like you are in good shape with hydration...and all the other posters have shared good advice about sipping often.

The one piece of information I did want to share is that nausea is a symptom of severe dehydration. I did not know this, and thought that thirst would be more of an accurate symptom. I was wrong, and ended up in the hospital with severe dehydration.

I've gone extra distance to make certain that I never find myself in that situation again!

Best wishes...

I have a 40 oz water bottle that I fill twice a day (at a minimum) and drink throughout the day. The first few weeks are tough to get in all the fluids, but it does get easier.

Like the others have said.... The first few weeks are the hardest to get in your fluids... But even now ...22months out I have to remind myself to drink water... Especially when it's cooler weather. Or freezing in your office space like mine is.

After surgery I could not drink large volumes of water at all. Maybe due to swelling. I'm back to normal now but that was a struggle for me too!

Glad to know I'm not the only one. I managed to get all the protein shakes in today and finished 32 oz of water with two Popsicles. Tomorrow's a new day, will try again!