I'm pre-op, and I know we should always drink water, but I hate water. I found some flavored water that I actually like. After surgery, does water slip on through and not get absorbed? Will I croak if I don't drink 64 ounces every day??

You won't croak, but will feel better if you stay hydrated. I mix it up with Crystal Lite, Diet Iced tea, etc.

We’re only advised to drink what is the recommended intake for everybody - 2litres or 64 ounces a day. More if you reside in a hot climate &/or perspire a lot. Water flushes toxins out your body, aids brain function, improves your skin, takes pressure off your hearts as your blood is easier to pump around your bodies, regulates your body temperature, etc. Our body is 60% water & some organs are more than that. If you feel thirsty, your body is already in a water deficit.

The good news is you don’t just have to drink water. Any liquids count. Just don’t make caffeinated drinks the main source. Your post surgery protein shakes, broths, soups, etc. will all count too. I get my intake from a combination of still water, flat sparkling water (I like the minerally taste as a break from only plain water which sometimes can feel heavy to drink), green tea & extra milk in my rolled oats. Add a squeeze of lemon, lime or other citrus to your water. In the weeks post surgery I doubled the water needed to make my shakes & hydralite (the boost of energy & electrolytes were helpful).

I keep water beside my bed so I drink during the night & in my car (drink when I get in, when I get out & at every red light). I also find it easier to drink from a glass.

Thank you for such a detailed reply! That helps.

Your opinion on the way water tastes may change after your surgery--I was not a big "plain" water drinker prior to my surgery and drank a lot of Mio/Propel/etc and now all those things taste horrible to me and I just want water.

Also, because you're going to eat a lot less (and a lot less fiber as a result), you'll be prone to constipation. Drinking a lot of water (I do 96-120 oz a day) helps keeping you regular.