I'm a drinker with my meals when can you drink a little during a meal? I feel like I'm choking the whole time I eat urging for a sip of fluids! Any comments?

The rule I was given is no drinking 1/2 hour before or after meals. No drinking during meals at all. If you're getting a choking sensation, perhaps the foods you're eating are too dry?

Sip here and there is okay most of the time. Don't use a straw as the air is a killer. I was a big drinker when eating too, but I've found that I am doing that a lot less. I've seen some Drs recommend 30 minutes before eating and 20 minutes after, but mine didn't think that was really necessary, so I sip along. One thing that helps it go down a little better is swishing it, before swallowing. Got that tip from my post op nurse and it seems to work.

I understand. I have Sjogren's, dry mouth autoimmune disorder. But you can't drink with meals as it stretches your pouch and will lead to harm and undoing the whole point of the surgery. I know it is hard but you can do it. Set a timer for 30 mintures and distract yourself. Select foods that are easier to get down at this stage. If you really feel like you are about to cough or choke, you can do a massage that will make more saliva in your mouth so you can swallow easier.

http://reasonablywell-julia.blogspot.com/2011/07/ssf-patient-education-sheet-how-to.html

Also thinking about sour things like lemons can also make your mouth Water. Make sure to drink 30 minutes before your meal so you are well hydrated.

I had to wait an hour before and after meals in the beginning. It is hard, but you get used to it. I take sips of milk when I eat peanut butter toast, but I am a year out. I don't suggest you do that. You need to train yourself to not drink with meals. I don't even think about it. When I go out to eat I order water only because servers think its weird if I don't and ask me several times during the meal.