Is it safe to drink alcohol after bariatric surgery? Recommendations from a South Florida Weight Loss Surgeon

30 May Is it safe to drink alcohol after bariatric surgery? Recommendations from a South Florida Weight Loss Surgeon

Posted at 19:42h in after bariatric surgery by

 

Bariatric surgery is a significant and life-changing procedure that can help people achieve meaningful weight loss. It can also affect the way the body processes alcohol, leading to potentially dangerous situations if proper precautions are not taken. As a medical weight loss surgeon, I want to give you some safety tips to consider when drinking alcohol after bariatric surgery.

 

  • Wait until your body has fully healed: It is essential to wait until your body has fully recovered from surgery before consuming alcohol. We recommend you wait up to six months before you incorporate alcohol into your diet again.
  • Limit your alcohol intake: The Mayo Clinic recommends that bariatric surgery patients limit their alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day. This is because bariatric surgery can affect the way the body absorbs and metabolizes alcohol, leading to higher blood alcohol levels and a greater risk of alcohol-related problems.
  • Choose low-calorie, low-sugar drinks: After bariatric surgery, it’s important to watch your calorie and sugar intake. Choose low-calorie, low-sugar alcoholic drinks such as light beer, wine, or spirits mixed with sugar-free mixers or water.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking alcohol can dehydrate you, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after drinking alcohol.
  • Eat before drinking: Drinking on an empty stomach can lead to quicker alcohol absorption and higher blood alcohol levels. Eating a meal before drinking can help slow down the absorption of alcohol and reduce its effects.
  • Avoid carbonated drinks: Carbonated drinks can cause bloating and discomfort after bariatric surgery. Stick to non-carbonated alcoholic beverages instead.
  • Monitor your alcohol tolerance: After bariatric surgery, your body may not be able to tolerate the same amount of alcohol as before. Be mindful of how much you’re drinking and how it affects you.
  • Be aware of possible addiction transfer. It’s not uncommon for patients who have a history of addiction to transfer their addictions to other addictive behaviors (shopping, gambling, alcohol etc.). 

 

Remember, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before consuming alcohol after bariatric surgery. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation and medical history. And when you get the green light, choose drinks that are low in calories and sugar, and non-carbonated. 

 

Skinny Margarita

 

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 oz agave nectar
  • Ice
  • Salt for rim (optional)
  • Lime wheel for garnish (optional)

 

Instructions:

  1. Rim a glass with salt (optional) and fill with ice.
  2. In a shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, and agave nectar.
  3. Shake vigorously and strain into the prepared glass.
  4. Garnish with a lime wheel (optional).

 

This recipe uses fresh juices instead of sugary mixers, and the agave nectar provides a touch of sweetness without adding too many calories. Remember to drink this cocktail in moderation and be mindful of your alcohol tolerance after bariatric surgery. It’s always best to consult with your doctor before consuming alcohol after surgery.

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