Hey everyone! I start the mushy food stage next Tuesday and also the no water before, during and after food (30-30-30 rule). This seems like a lot to remember since I’m so used to having liquids right now. Anyone have challenges with this? Figured I would ask before I got started.

Thanks!

Many people may find this aspect challenging, I certainly did (eating and drinking at the same time was an ingrained habit)

In the early days post op, I used alarms and timers to keep on track.

Good Luck ♥️

Watch this video as a great reminder of why not to mix liquids and food!

On 08/16/2020 at 16:26, ChubRub said:

Watch this video as a great reminder of why not to mix liquids and food!

https://www.youtube.com/embed/SEChD5WcLSg?feature=oembed

Good explanation. Thanks for sending that.

It is a little hard to get used to; I have this instinct to grab a drink when I am about to start eating before I remember I can't do that. When I'm getting ready to eat, I set a 30-minute timer on my phone after I take my last sip of water (and put the water in the fridge so I don't forget and start drinking it again), and then start eating when the timer goes off. After I take my last bite, I start a 30-minute timer so I know when I can start drinking again.

Also, consider this rule before you eat anything spicy.

I'm almost 4 weeks out, and this is the hardest thing for me. I'm used to drinking a huge amount with food and in general, so it's hard to sip. I'm doing what I'm supposed to though, and I know it'll get easier with time.

My doctor told me that there was no limit on drinking before eating--only during and after. Has anyone else been told that?

2 hours ago, Recidivist said:

My doctor told me that there was no limit on drinking before eating--only during and after. Has anyone else been told that?

Yes, my doctor only said no drinking during or for 30 minutes after eating, no restrictions before. But just to be safe, I don't drink anything for 30 minutes before eating, either.

I always go against the grain, I agree after and during nope. But i have found the 30 rule after to be a little long - I read a post here a long time ago that said wait till you feel comfortable if blotted from food then hang tight. For me i drink gator aide - while cooking and just about up to the time i eat. Once i get up and move a little i can drink again without to many issues usually no less the 15 min later. Now i also am a strong fighter for just live you life and these apps, timers and other gimicks are to much of a pain in the ass. As you move along the journey you will find it easier to do and just becomes a routine.

DO NOT Drink and Eat trust me on that. I was sipping a beer and eating oysters the other day and I had to go visit the bush outside.

All of this us very helpful! Don’t drink during food... got it! Know your body for the rest.

I am thankful my surgeon only requires a 30 minutes after a meal - that is hard enough, I can’t imagine trying to do 30 minutes before a meal also. I feel like I would spend the entire day watching my watch!