This question is for all you seasoned bandsters...So I know we're not supposed to drink after we've had the band placed...I wasn't much of a drinker to begin with so it hasn't bothered me in the least bit...however as many of you know there are times when a drink is almost impossible to refrain from (wedding toasts, etc) So my question is this...in the event that we decide to partake in a drink, what's the best choice for us to make? I know fizzy/bubbly drinks or beer is not an option (I've heard it stretches the pouch!! . I'm only a couple of weeks out so haven't encountered this obsticle yet....any suggestions?

Alcohol really isn't a problem for the band. I've tried beer, but the carbonation doesn't sit well for me. I've had no problem with wine or mixed drinks. You just need to be aware that alcohol, in all it's forms, is just empty calories. If you drink regularly, it will slow down your weight loss.... but we all need to have some fun, too!

Cindy

You are right, I was told carbonation stretches the pouch. I think a drink once in a while is fine. It would be good to factor it into your calories for the day. In mixed drihks I would avoid regular soda and juice. They both have lots of carbs and calories. Have fun.

Drink in moderation and remember to include the calories. Also be aware that alcohol often gives people the munchies which could sabotage your diet efforts. A glass of wine is probably one of the better options.

You'll also want to remember that alcohol might hit you harder/faster than before, so don't expect to have your normal amount. Just drink and pay attention to how you're feeling.

Ya, I learned the "alcohol now hits us harder" rule the WRONG way.

Last week, I was on a cruise and had maybe 4 drinks....and 2 shots. For me, this is normally not enough alcohol to have much effect, especially with dinner and over the course of an 8 hour evening out.

Well, boy was I wrong.

I was feeling ok, and then suddenly, I wasn't ok at all.

I then vomited for 15 hours. Which was painful. I was pretty sure I would die.

So I can say, wholeheartedly, that we can NOT consume alcohol the same way anymore. Not to mention we are eating a lot less so there is nothing to absorb it. And my doctor was adamant that there can never again be carbonation or beer. This all happened as a result of cranberry and vodka.

Look for drinks with a lower alochol %. I plan on have white wine over ice- hope the ice delutes the wine. I am avoiding carbonation for the first few months.

I hear some drink wine. Vodka and cranberry is also a non-carbonation option.

I did a search on the internet and found that vodka, gin, and scotch have about 60 calories/ounce. So, if I decide to have a drink, I purchase sugar free drink mixes--Target and Walmart both have sugar free lime margarita mix and target has a sugar free cosmo mix. (powdered) Also, one of my favorite drinks is Tanqueray and Diet Lemonade. Butt any flavored vodka with club soda is good for me too!

I drink wine and gimlets (gin with a dash of Rose's lime). Just pay attention to the calories/carbonation in the mixers with mixed drinks but you can usually find something.

I'm six weeks post surgery, I have had red wine on occasion, and more recently found 100 calorie margaritas ( Cuervo and Margaritaville) There is definately a trade off because of calories, and do watch the quantity that you drink. Your body has changed or in the process of changing, you are eating much less so you will (you will) be effected by the alcohol ! I learned by experience... really ice down your drink or pour a half glass of wine instead of a full one.

1st time I had a drink, I only needed 1 and felt I couldn't drive myself home. What a surprise that was. It hit me HARD. You can probably drink a little as a social drinker, but beware of calories, as others have said. Karen

When I do have a drink I stick with excuse my french Skinny Bitches! thats what there called....lol, but its just Vodka with water & of course lemon and lime. If made right it simply tastes like lemon water.

I am not a regular drinker. Before about three weeks ago, I couldn't remember the last time I had a drink. Then I went to a cookout at a coworkers house (a going away party for someone) and had a margarita. OMG. It knocked me on my a$$. I drank the whole thing and then proceeded to drink water for three hours before going home. Will definitely have very few drinks in my future.

I do have drinks on occasion. I usually have mixed drinks and am starting to learn about & enjoy wine now Love beer but the carbination just makes me feel so bloated and miserable. Yes, it seems to hit me faster than pre-band, I'm guessing it is because I just don't eat the volume of food anymore & there is nothing to help "absorb" it.

I have the occasional margarita and have no problems. But I have to agree, it does hit me a whole lot faster than it did before. There isnt near as much fat to absorb the alcohol anymore.