Resuming Eating

On the first to second day after surgery, you will be encouraged to take ice chips of one ounce per hour, (30cc). By the third day, you will probably be on a clear liquid diet. it is important to take liquids to replace normal body water losses and prevent dehydration. Once you are taking enough liquids, 60 oz per day (1500cc to 2000cc), the IV can be stopped.

Sip liquids slowly. If you gulp them, you will experience nausea, vomiting, or discomfort.

Once you are on solid food, your diet must emphasize protein, since your body will be getting it's energy from your stored fat. High protein, low fat, low carbohydrate foods and calorie-free liquids are important. A multiple vitamin, mineral, iron tablet will be needed daily since your food intake is decreased. If taking a tablet, it must be chewed or crushed since, after the surgery, you should not swallow tablets or pills whole. They may be big enough to get stuck in the "stoma", (the opening from your stomach to the small intestine), and cause obstruction. Nausea, vomiting, and discomfort will result. The same is true for any solid food so, you must chew completely before swallowing. Avoid red meats and chicken, since they are hard to chew to a blenderized consistency, and may get stuck at the "stoma".