i had a Laparoscopic Total proctocolectomy done on Aug.10 2011, and on sept. 19 2011 i was reconnected and have a J-Pouch. its been three weeks since my last surgery and i been taking metimucal 3 times a day. but i keep having bowl movements taht are 15-20 mins. apart, what do i need to do or take to lower the amount of bowl movements i have each day.

You can take up to 8 lomotil (Rx) or imodium per day, spaced out of course and generally taken after meals. Also consider the foods you are eating now and how they might be contributing to higher frequency. Keep a food log and measure your transit time. I found meat and chicken to be slow movers as well as rice. Bananas and peanut butter went right thru me. All of this will change with time so foods that might be speedy now won't be 6 months from now. Since no two jpouchers are alike, your transit times may be different than mine, that is why a log is helpful.

Sue

thank you for your time and info. do you know if there is a book on things to eat and things not to eat.

There is not a book, primarily because we are all so different. However, on the banner at the top of this page you will see a link for dietary guidelines. Just note that some suggestions from the link and others might not suit you. I remember when I was told to eat oatmeal and peanut butter, but both of those foods went right through me. That's why it's best to do your own trial and error. Anything with sugar in it, including juice and sodas, will make things looser.

After a period of adjustment you should be able to eat everything. Be patient; it will get better it just takes time. Measure your improvement in 6 week increments, not daily.

Are you taking your metamucil with half the recommended water? Have you tried metamucil wafers? Some have better results with them.

Sue

Metameucil made me go more,as in exactly what you are describing, Immodium constipated me so badly I thought I'd damage the pouch. The thing that works for me is Tincture of Opium. It is VERY expensive, but insurance does cover it. For me, the Opium was just way gentler. When I start to get butt burn, I add Questran. It binds the acids and provided overnight relief from at least things getting worse. The other thing I could not live without is a bidet.

Start taking Pepto Bismol. It literally changed my life regarding the frequency of my BMs. I hope it helps you as much as it did me.