Whilst we warn you of the dangers of drinking alcohol after bariatric surgery, we all tend to think that we shouldn’t drink because of the empty calories and potential weight regain. In fact, it can become a serious issue for you, particularly after Gastric Bypass or Gastric Sleeve surgery.
Alcohol affects you far more quickly after surgery. Drinking one or two glasses can make you feel as if you have had a bottle! I know that some of you may be thinking “great, I will be a cheap date” but you need to be aware that it’s a little more complicated.
You will be over the drink driving limit - without knowing.
Alcohol is a carbohydrate that has no nutritional benefits whatsoever.
It is toxic to the body and is particularly hard on your liver.
Alcohol is addictive.
With a smaller stomach, which will have less food in it, you will feel drunker quicker. And because of those feelings, there is a high prevalence of alcoholism after bariatric surgery, especially around 2 years post-operatively. The blood alcohol levels measured in gastric bypass patients are raised higher compared to a non-bariatric patient.
Some patients talk about “addiction transference” I.e. – changing their addiction from food to alcohol, after surgery. But I wonder if this is really the case? Some of us “treat” ourselves to a glass or two after a tough day at work. Others try to use alcohol to block out stress. We all know that those feelings come back once the alcohol has worn off, so why do we do it?
Granted, there is nothing I like more at the end of a week, than a few glasses of the red stuff. But I am now far more mindful of the effect that it now has on me. I have become repetitive, silly and boring (often falling asleep at the drop of a hat). I recently saw a video of myself and cringed with embarrassment. My friends and family have all noticed the effects that alcohol now has on me since my gastric bypass surgery just under 2 years ago.
Are your alarm bells ringing? If so take note and take action, before alcohol takes over you. You are working hard getting over your food addiction, don’t now let alcohol become your new best friend.
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Disclaimer: Please note that weight loss surgery results and benefits are unique to each individual and in such The Bariatric Group cannot guarantee specific weight loss goals as results for each surgery can vary. If you have any questions or would like to know more about weight loss surgery please contact our expert team.
