I am 3 weeks post lap band revised to gastric. I have lost 20 pounds and have had no problems. No gum , No straw. The gum draws air into your system as does the straw. The straw also makes a person drink too fast. You will want to have plenty of liquid foods ie: Jello, chicken broth, 1% milk, unjury.com has mixes to put in Water. (I'm drinking an apple one in 20 oz of water right now which is giving me 21 g of Protein. My doctor told me to remember 60/60/60. 60 gr protein, 60 oz water, and 60 mi of walking per day. The walking can be done in 10 minute increments. You are not going to feel like eating a thing and they really don't expect you too. Just try very hard to get water in so you don't dehydrate. Believe me..time will go by fast. It's really not that bad:) Good luck to ya