Surgery is about 3 weeks out. I have to do the liver reduction pre op diet and I know about the post op diet stages. Of course all WLS materials tell you " no alcohol " even later on. I know there's calories but at this stage of my life I really enjoy a glass or 2 of red wine on the weekend nights. Is this gonna be a problem long term?

Upon reflection.......probably the wrong forum for this question.

I'm not one of those people who say 'You can NEVER have X THING AGAIN!' And neither is my surgeon. He does try to keep us in good information about putting ourselves in a position to win.

Transfer Addiction is a huge deal for WLSers and alcoholism is a BIGGIE. I also know that if you want to be successful, alcohol should be kept to a minimum because your body will burn that sugar and those carbs before ANY FAT. Your first year is your golden ticket... you'll lose more in the first year to 18th months than you might lose in the 2 years following. Use that time wisely.

As well, we metabolize alcohol very quickly so you'll be drunk off of one glass when two used to just make you feel good. It is recommended to avoid it for as long as possible. I know quite a few people who started drinking wine and liquor around 7 months out... loss has slowed or stopped and they just seem to DRINK a whole lot. People do much better when they keep it to a minimum.

That said, you're an adult and you know the rules. Your Mileage while sticking to them or bending them may vary. I'd hold out as long as you can and if/when you pick it back up, count the calories, count the carbs, plan to not lose lbs that next week and don't make it a habit. There's nothing more embarrassing than a drunk WLS patient. It's REALLY not pretty.

I had a drink about 6 months after my surgery. Wine tends to make me feel ill. It is too sweet for me.

My advice - make sure you are not alone your first time having wine. It does go to your head quickly.

Honestly it's a personal choice. I didn't get my surgery to be skinny, I got my surgery so I could be happy. I have 2-3 beers a week and I have since after the 6 month mark. I am happy with my weight loss and I am happy with my lifestyle. Could I be thinner if I didn't have empty calories from beer and other choices, YES. But its all about what is right for you. I have a good balance of good choices and not so good choices and I couldn't be happier.

So maybe a half a glass on Saturday nights