Hello all

I just had surgery on 4/28 and I’m feeling great and have no problems. My only issue is that I have an overwhelming need to chew. I’m reaching all my hydration and food goals...not hungry, just need to chew. I am chewing gum and it seems to help some but I am so over sweet things. I need something savory, any suggestions? Thanks.

Be careful with gum just yet. Chewing gum activates the process of digestion which includes stomach acid, except there is no food to digest. The excess stomach acid could hurt your new stomach that is healing as well as cause acid reflux.

Maybe chew on some ice chips...not savoury I know. It would be long before you progress through the food stages. Maybe find some thing to distract you when you crave the chewing/savoury sensation, something that keeps your mind and hands busy.

Thanks for the info. I didn’t realize this. Thank goodness I haven’t had any issues from doing this. I definitely need to take up a hobby to keep myself busy ?