So can I have red bull? I know carbonation is out, and I havent touched it since my surgery, but what about the very lightly carbonated beverages? If you have ever had red bull you know it does not have nearly the amout of carbonation a coke does, it dosent burn your throat or bubble up if your pour it in a glass.

In the intrest of full disclousre, I will admit that I am asking because I like drinking red bull with vodka. I drink sugar free red bull so it does not have many calories. I havent had it since surgery. My doc cleared me for the occasional drink at my last visit and I am going out for the first time this weekend. I understand about the calories and the decreased control over my willpower, and I plan on having only one or two drinks.

So has anyone had red bull or heard if it is safe for the band?

I was told to stay away caffience as well, but I'm not sure if that was just my Dr. or if that is what everyone is told.

Caffeine will dehydrate you in a hurry. Personally, I stay away from caffeine for the most part. I will have some once in a while, but I'd rather drink something else without the caffeine and empty calories.

I love RB and Vodka, but have stayed away from it cuz of the carbonation...however I did have a few when I was in Vegas a couple of weeks ago and gotta admit...it was mighty tasty!

So heres the scoop my dietitian says if you really feel the need, then you can drink a carbonated drink (although not recomended) after letting it sit for quite awhile. In otherwords let it go flat and then add it. So if you are going out, then you might consider doing this, not sure how to do it in a bar setting, but I am sure you can get creative. I have to say I was banded on the 18th of June and I thought it might be nice to try a soda and when i did i was totally disgusted, so in essence i guess what they say about ur taste buds changing does happen, look for a new drink, maybe a screwdriver.. Hey lets be honest, most of us do like to have a good time and at some point a night out does happen.. Best of luck, and enjoy your night out!