I only wait about 10-15 minutes after eating to drink water. And I also take little sips while eating to moisten food and make it easier to chew and swallow. Don't worry so much about it. Just make sure you're getting your vitamins, proteins and water requirements. Dehydration is much more serious. You'll be fine.

I would be very careful if you are drinking while eating or close to eating. Part of the problem with having liquid with your meal is that it washes things through faster which allowes you to eat more...which will cause problems. At first it is really hard to eat and not drink...but be patient and keep at it...You do get used to it...i don't even crave liquid when eating anymore.
Talk to your nut...ask them...you want to make sure you dont' do anything to hinder your progress...and no drink while eating appears to be a pretty standard rule across the board...with very small variations in timelines....
the longer you feel full...the less you'll want to eat...the longer you should go without a drink after eating...

Don't beat yourself up, but do work on extending that time between eating/drinking. Yes, you know the reasons... and possible results if you don't manage it. Having said that, I personally find it the hardest part of adapting to this surgery...and I knew it would be. I'm a clock watcher now, and once I've eaten, I notice the time. Know then it has to be 30 mins. (Minimum) before I drink something. Yes, it's tough sometimes.

What I have found helpful is using less salt, even in cooking as that adds to thirst. Also, cutting those pieces of food into small bites reminds me to chew, eat slowly, put the fork down, and by chewing , chewing some more, and chewing it even more, I find I don't need to wash the food down. As for feeling dehydrated, I think that can be a common challenge too. The key is to maybe drink first thing in the morning, wait to eat a half hour, then be sure you are sipping , once the 30 minutes or so has passed after eating.

Takes some real practice. Hang in there.

this video I did may explain a lot for you...

http://formerfatdudes.com/2009/11/friends-dont-let-friends-drink-and-eat/

excellent responses..I have nothing to add...just don't freak out.. it's not worth it in the long run..

Hey McGee,

That is a fantastic demonstration of why not to drink when eating your food!! Sometimes words don't always work but who can't understand a visual?

Thanks!

Thanks everyone. McNee the video did help. I'm working on waiting the recommended time after eating for sure.

Waiting 30 min. might seem difficult but it is worth it in the end. You won't dehydrate from not drinking for an hour. You will be alright. Great visual McNee. Thanks.