Hi IlliniFan,You'll always want to chew raw veggies more carefully, as they can get a little stuck or irritate going through the wrap if they're too chunky when swallowed. It's hard for me to remember exactly, but I know the surgeon said to stay away from steak and untoasted bread for about 8 weeks. I'd say the third and fourth month you can handle them.
Still you won't want to take a big bite of steak and find it doesn't chew well (grizzle, etc) then swallow it anyway, like you did pre-wrap. Anything you swallow should be chewed thoroughly. It's really trial and error. There isn't an exact time, but you'll know when it's time. I followed the rule that if I couldn't chew it completely I didn't swallow it. I started eating normal foods at Day 5 or 6, but always took small bites and chew to a creamy consistency. You'll always want to chew your food more carefully than you did prior to your wrap. That resistance is what keeps that nasty acid in your stomach!
Hi luv2drive,
Welcome to the forum! Glad you've joined us! Many people get back to drinking coffee quite early. I'd wait at least a couple weeks if I were you. Of course a few sips won't hurt earlier than that. I'm not the best to talk about it, since both pre and post op coffee can bother my stomach. I do drink it, but only on special occasions with desserts and in fancy restaurants with great coffee. I figure if my stomach is going to bother me I'd better enjoy the coffee!
Take care,
Denise