I was told not to use a straw. I believe it was to reduce air/gas in the tummy. However, I have seen many posts about post-sleevers using straws. So, do you or don't you? If you don't - what were you told were the impacts of using a straw? (I have been using them pre-op to avoid the protein powder smell.)

I can and do use straws now, and for about the last 2 months.

During my initial recovery, I could not use a straw because it did put more air in my stomach, and it was uncomfortable. Now, I have zero issues with straws.

I was given a straw with my meal the day after surgery in the hospital. I never had any problems with it.

I tend to think this is situational, based on the person. I've never had a problem with straws, from day one of my band... A word of advice from my gastrointerologist for taking down enough proteins/liquids was to use a large straw. I've tried this in sampling some of the protein drinks, and such, prior to my sleeve... it seems to make the taste more bareable. I'm not sure why, maybe because nothing is hitting the lips and the front of your tongue? Anyways, if your doc says no straws, I guess I'd stick with that... at least for the early stages. Later, perhaps, you'll be able to use them again? :smile:

Edited January 25, 201016 yr by youknowit
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