Jennifer I had my bypass on Valentine’s Day. I completely understand the left side under the rib pain and mine can be such a pain it takes my breathe away or literally makes me scream out. That pain seems to be less during the daytime and I really try to gauge my pain meds around it too. For me that pain is not gas or because I’ve eaten or drank too much. My doc said that’s very normal because most of our work is on the left side and it will get better. It is definitely frustrating trying to balance protein and water. I’m not using the time system they suggested every 30 minutes. I have found a tummy friendly tasty smoothie recipe though. I drink 1/2 a cup at a time but made the whole amount. 1/2 cup of very low or sugar free Greek yoghurt flavored (no fruit in it etc)-I used vanilla 1/2 cup skim or 1%milk-I used 1% 1/2 medium size smashed banana 2 tbsp of PB2 powder 1 scoop of protein powder - I used chocolate I threw in some ice and blended till liquids and sipped 4 ounces as a serving it’s not too bad Also Hint flavored water in apple crisp 0 calories or sugar has really helped me out.