Drinking Alcohol After Bariatric Surgery—Is It Safe?

The journey to health and well-being often takes unexpected turns, and for many, bariatric surgery represents a transformative milestone. However, as you embark on this path, questions may arise about the pleasures of life that we all cherish, including the occasional glass of wine or a celebratory toast. So, can you drink alcohol after gastric sleeve surgery? Read on to find out.

Can You Have Alcohol After a Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Post-bariatric surgery life is a journey of adjustment, where the choices we make can profoundly impact our progress. Alcohol, like any drug, affects individuals differently. Bariatric surgery adds a unique layer of complexity to these effects. It fundamentally alters the way your body digests food, resets your metabolic clock, and significantly reduces your tolerance. While drinking alcohol after gastric sleeve surgery is not strictly prohibited, it should be approached with prudence. Take your doctor’s advice into consideration while figuring out when you can have alcohol after gastric sleeve.

Potential Impacts of Alcohol Consumption Post-Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery entails the removal of a portion of the stomach, resulting in a smaller stomach pouch. This alteration affects how the body processes alcohol, leading to a few noteworthy changes in alcohol metabolism.

• Reduced tolerance: Many patients find that their tolerance for alcohol diminishes after surgery. With a smaller stomach, even a modest amount of alcohol can result in quicker intoxication. Therefore, it is crucial to consider this when inquiring how long after bariatric surgery you can drink alcohol.
• Weight regain: You have worked diligently to shed those excess pounds, and alcohol, unfortunately, can undermine your progress. Alcohol is essentially sugar and carbs with minimal nutritional value. Bariatric patients meticulously manage their sugar and carb intake to maintain their weight loss.
• Liver complications: Excessive alcohol intake can harm the liver, and individuals with gastric sleeve surgery may be more susceptible to liver problems due to altered liver function. This is why it isn’t a good idea to consider drinking alcohol even three months after gastric sleeve.
• Alcohol misuse and dependency: The heightened sensitivity to alcohol may make some individuals more susceptible to alcohol misuse or dependence issues. 
• Poor food choices: Alcohol not only brings empty calories but also influences your decision-making abilities. After a few drinks, the inclination to make poor food choices can become stronger. Alcohol tends to lower inhibitions and impair judgment, leading you toward fatty, fried, or sugary foods rather than the nutritious options your body needs.

Avoid Alcohol Consumption for Better Health

How long after gastric sleeve you can drink alcohol is a question that requires thoughtful consideration. If you have undergone bariatric surgery in NY, consider finding alternative ways to enjoy social gatherings without jeopardizing your progress toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. Our experienced experts at Lennox Hill Hospital are available to guide you toward better health post-surgery. Schedule your consultation today.