Hi, Linda. Welcome to the group. If you really cannot stand drinking plain water, find some flavor packets, squirts or some fruit infusions or herbal teas that you like. I was not told no caffeine ever, but I was told no pop (soda) under any circumstances. The carbonation is really hard on your pouch and can stretch it out. Many of us on here have a coffee in the morning, with a bit of protein shake or high protein milk added. I was given both green and black tea in the hospital immediately after my surgery, so my guess is that's okay too. The idea behind no caffeine is it is a diuretic, which can cause dehydration if you are not drinking enough water. I have a latte, made with homemade espresso every morning but I also drink about 80-100 oz of water a day. I also did not add coffee until I was on back on a full diet. Hope that helps.