Why do they say not to drink from a straw??

Because you swallow a lot of air when you use a straw. After almost three years, I have to admit that I do use a straw occasionally. Not every time I drink, but sometimes.

I was never told I couldn't drink from a straw.

It's another example of how drastically different doctors' rules can be.

I'm drinking from a straw right now. My Dr. never said not to and I've never felt any ill effects from it.

There may be a reason not to immediately after surgery, but not that I know of.

I don't use a straw. Doc said not to and I said yes sir!

I use a straw.

Dr. never told me not to.....I use a straw for those things were it is best to...like milk shakes, etc...

After being banded for almost 3 years, I, also, use a straw when using a straw seems to be the right thing. I follow most of my surgeon's rules, but he is happy with me, so if I use a straw he would probably be fine. (By the way, his office staff use straw, when needed too)!!!

While in hospital the nurses told me I was best sipping from a cup, but I'd asked the surgeon during my first fill and he was happy if I used a straw.

I found I enjoy sipping from a cup for most drinks now, it gives my mouth the taste of what I'm drinking for a little longer than drinking via a straw.

I haven't seen my original surgeon (Miami) in over two years. My replacement (South Carolina) was SO much different from my original. He would do any fill, told me to go on no BRPP (bread rice pasta potatoes-quinoa and so much more was a nono also) and I felt like I failed every time I slipped something in my mouth. I lost 90 lbs doing it the first time without this second guy.....OK, I'm getting off topic......STRAWS were a no no as well as CHEWING GUM. I need to make an appointment to see my new doctor (Houston, TX) and see how he is

My surgeon was excellent and very experienced with band. He never mentioned straws or gum. I do both constantly although i'm very careful to never swallow my gum LOL. I've been very successful, no problems.

my doctor says no straws or gum.

straws because of the air like a few others have said.

gum because if you swallow it, it can cause a stick and the only way to un stick gum is by an unfill. My friend and mentor Paula had this happen too her.

I was told the same thing as Bayougirl, and like Chez, I said "yes sir".

Its one of those things that go along with carbonation or no carbonation.

Since I have to answer to my Dr, I will follow his rules.

I followed the rules and didn't use a straw, but now i really need it to help me from getting to much in at once. I am having some small issues with swallowing to much. I have a hard time just sipping now.