Given the recent popularity of weight loss surgeries, many people are wondering if you can drink alcohol after gastric sleeve surgery. It is important to note that drinking isn’t completely banned after gastric sleeve surgery; however, there are some rules you should be aware of before taking this step.
Do Not Drink Alcohol Until You Are Fully Healed
Can you drink alcohol after a gastric sleeve? Yes, but not until you are fully healed. There are a few reasons for this, but the most important is that your stomach will still be healing. Alcohol can inhibit blood flow and prevent proper wound healing from taking place. In addition to delaying recovery time, drinking during this period could cause other issues such as leaks or infections.
Be Mindful of Your Caloric Consumption
Many alcoholic drinks are high in sugars and calories. It’s very easy to drink a lot of calories when you are drinking. Some experts recommend sticking to clear drinks with minimal sugar, such as vodka sodas or light beer. These options will be lower in sugars and help you monitor your intake more closely.
Don’t Stretch Your Stomach With Too Much Carbonation
It’s probably best to avoid carbonated drinks. This is because they can cause more bloating and discomfort due to your smaller stomach from gastric sleeve surgery in West Texas.
Tips for Consuming Alcohol After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Minimize Your Alcohol Intake
Even if you are allowed to drink alcohol after gastric sleeve surgery, that doesn’t mean you should drink excessively. Remember that alcohol is full of calories and can quickly offset your weight loss progress.
Drink in Moderation
Moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. This means sticking to light beers, vodka sodas, or other clear liquors with low calorie counts.
Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach
Drinking on an empty stomach can lead to nausea and vomiting, which is definitely not something you want after gastric sleeve surgery. Try to drink with food or at least wait a few hours after eating before having a drink.
Drink Slowly
The slower you drink, the easier it is for your body to process the alcohol. Sipping your drink over a period of time will help you avoid getting drunk too quickly and minimize the negative effects of alcohol consumption.
Be Aware of Your Alcohol Limit
It’s important to keep track of how much alcohol you are drinking and not exceed your limit. One way to do this is to calculate how many drinks equate to one bottle of beer or one glass of wine. Remember that you don’t have to drink an entire bottle in order for it to count towards your limit!
Need more guidance on life after gastric sleeve? Speak with the team at West Texas Bariatrics. Worried about acid reflux? Read: How Can I Fix My Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?