To straw or not to straw

[Mitzimom 31]

Ok. So my surgeon’s office says NO straws. I don’t know why of all the things I could worry about that I have picked this to fret about but I have. I don’t understand how you ‘swallow air’ with a straw any more that without one. What is everyone else’s thoughts on this?

[Orchids&Dragons 9,047]

I'd avoid them real close to surgery because your tender tummy will be very sensitive to that little extra bit of air. Once you've healed some, you likely won't have a problem with straws. I use them all the time.

[CrankyMagpie 509]

I really like using straws. I also really like carbonated beverages.

But it's such a small thing (or pair of things, I guess) to give up, in the grander scheme?

I'm going to do what I'm told, on that. I've heard enough stories about people causing themselves discomfort by pushing the boundaries that I plan not to push, at all. I threw out my water bottle that had a straw attached, and I got myself a half-size Nalgene (it's so cute! it's like they took the normal, 32 ounce one and just shrunk it!).

[Mitzimom 31]

Thank you guys! I have super sensitive teeth so I have always used a straw. I am trying hard not to use one but I am just a little frustrated with it. I have a 32oz stainless cup like a yeti that I love (if my Water isn’t cold I don’t like to drink it). I LOVE seltzer water and I have given that up. I am sure it’s just nervous nitpicking as the SD approaches.

[RickM 1,753]

It seems like the only time one is really sucking air is at the end when trying to get the last out of the glass. I think that the general consensus on this, as with many things, is that if it bothers you, don't do it; if it doesn't bother you, you aren't doing any damage.

Generally, it is best to humor them and follow their instructions as if you have any problems, related or not, you will be labelled a non-compliant patient and you will hear "see - it's those straws!"

[MargoCL 677]

Like you this was one of my concerns giving up straws and carbonated beverages. But I can see the intake of air with both and the idea of injuring my new belly for self-gratification is enough to have me rethink my thoughts / decision.

Straw - The tube is filled with air as you suck up the liquid. Is it enough to damage you, maybe, maybe not. But is it worth the chance?

I can tell you post op, that ice-cold beverage in my yeti cup is not a concern as I can barely tolerate room temperature. My new stomach only wants hot liquids (not even warm). Choose your battles wisely and as you learn your new routines you may or may not want that straw anymore.

[TakingABreak 2,733]

3 hours ago, Mitzimom said:

Ok. So my surgeon’s office says NO straws. I don’t know why of all the things I could worry about that I have picked this to fret about but I have. I don’t understand how you ‘swallow air’ with a straw any more that without one. What is everyone else’s thoughts on this?

My program discouraged both carbonation and straws during the healing process, which can be up to 3 months. I use a straw every day. No discomfort on my end from excess gas.

[sassysleever76 97]

My program discouraged use of both straws and carbonated drinks. I gave up my daily La Croix on my pre op diet which was a struggle. But the more research I did I found that carbonated beverages were one of the leading causes of stretching the pouch and thus leading to gaining weight. Which I am doing everything in my power to be successful‼️

[GreenTealael 25,614]

I have ignored this rule since surgery when i asked about their effect on the outcome of my success and was told it was negligible.

HOWEVER

I have reverted to being straw less lately at almost 10 months out. I no longer need them like i thought i absolutely did especially since I just discovered the sippy lid at Starbucks for the cold cups.