Points to Remember

  • You should try to consume 60-80 grams of protein per day. Most protein drinks have between 10-15 grams for every 8-11 ounces.

  • Avoid drinking ½ hour before your meal and ½ hour after your meal so you are able to tolerate the full 8 ounces of protein drink.

  • Drink slowly or SIP, SIP, SIP. It should take you 30 minutes to drink up to 8 ounces of fluid; it is common to feel “full” after drinking only 4-6 ounces immediately after surgery. Stop your “meal” after 30 minutes.

  • Avoid all carbonated fluids. Carbonated fluids may stretch your new stomach and can be very uncomfortable (GAS).

  • Do not chew gum.

  • Do not graze between meals. If you are hungry between meals, limit your snacks to 8 oz of milk or 4 oz of a protein drink.

  • Do not use a straw to sip your fluids; doing so can lead to extra air accumulating in the new stomach causing discomfort.