Or rather, HOW to sip. Are straws taboo? Once my doc said no straws, but later said they are ok.

Any opinions out there?

The "no straws" is because it causes gas and discomfort for some people. I use straws and have no problems. You could try it, but stop if you feel any pain or discomfort.

I was told no straws for the first 6 months. Something about putting additional air into your pouch. Although I did forget and use a straw at Jamba Juice on Thursday...whoops!

I was actually told no straws, and no gum for that matter, I guess I forgot those rules but you should be fine, I've never had a problem.

I was told the same...no straws, no gum. I never stopped using a straw; I drink water best that way. I have zero issues with it. GUM on the other hand, I chewed once shortly after surgery, and definitely had some gastric upset. I may try it again now that I'm many weeks past surgery, but now I keep TicTacs in my purse, for when I feel the need to "freshen up".

Ironically, my doctor is rather conservative when it comes to all his practices with the band, but he never told me I couldn't use a straw after I got off the post op diet.

I actually use one often because it keeps me from "gulping" down fluids. I've never experienced a problem.

But that's just my experience with it. I've heard some do get too much air using straws.

The no gum rule is due to accidental swallowing of the gum. If this happens it can cause big problems getting stuck and not dissolving.

I was given a cup of Water with a straw when I woke up in recovery. I always use a straw and have never had any problem at all.

I'm not a gum chewer, so can't tell you anything about that other than my doctor never said not to chew gum, but it does make sense that it could cause some awful problems if you swallow it!

How do I get my ticker to show both weight loss and BMI on the same ticker? I'm a newbie to the site. Surgery was on 5/23.

I chewed on a very small piece of gum on the 3rd day and paid for it dearly with gas pains. The Optifast shakes are milk based and it coats your tongue and leaves you breath smelling like spoiled milk. Yuck!!!