Fluid intake

[Nikki88 6]

I'm four weeks out and I still can't drink anymore than 20-30 oz a day. I sip all day on one cup! Some days I only pee twice a day should I be worried about that?? Today was really bad I was only able to drink 20 oz I have been super hungry (first time since surgery) and I have barely been to the bathroom all day.

[James Marusek 5,244]

According to my post-op directions from my surgical team, the daily Fluid requirement was 64-80 ounces per day. So since you can only drink 20-30 ounces per day, this does appear to be a problem. Four things come to mind.

Recovery from Surgery: During the first few weeks after surgery, may individuals report difficulty consuming the required amount of fluids. This is because their new stomach is in a major heal mode. Generally if they continue trying each day, they can increase their daily totals and reach the required goal. You are 4 weeks out and should be closing in on your daily goals. So this points to a problem.

Definition of Fluids: Fluids are more than just Water, for example milk. It is the Water content of the Protein shake that you consume. It is the water in Soups. It is the water you drink when you take your daily Vitamins. It is drinks such as tea, Decaf coffee, Crystal Light etc.

Inability to attain Fluid Goals: May be due to a stricture.

Taste of Fluids: After surgery, taste buds can change. After my RNY surgery 3 years ago, I could even stand the taste of water in the hospital. It tasted overly chlorinated and I just couldn't force myself to drink it. I found that the answer was experimentation. In the hospital, they gave me sugar free popsicles and they became my best friend. For example, I found that I could tolerate flavored water, so Crystal Light became my friend. For some individuals, the fluids are temperature sensitive. They like drinks hot or they like drinks cold. For me I found that I loved Hot Drinks when it was cold and there was snow on the ground. I drank hot chocolate but I used the "No Sugar Added" variety. I also liked fine English teas. I liked cold drinks on a warm summer day, such as Crystal Light and now my new favorite is Bai.