What's the deal with alcohol? When can you have it post op? I am no way a big drinker, but i do like an occasional night out. Does it affect you differently? What can you NOT drink? Can you have a lot, or only a small amount? My date is scheduled for 1/21, I'm guessing celebrating st. Paddy's day is out of the question??! Lol

Yes it is. I wouldn't even consider the thought of drinking for many months out. I don't drink and of course haven't drank since surgery (even drinking Water is a challenge) but I know that my narcotic painkillers used to take an hour to work, and now work in ten to fifteen minutes. Alcohol will go through you like a truck.

I would not have this surgery if you can't accept that you may never be able to drink much again.

There is also evidence of higher incidence of alcoholism post surgery. Some of that may be due addiction transfer (food to alcohol) but some is also due to different methablising alcohol .

QUOTE: "Among RYGB patients, there was a significant decrease in alcohol consumption in the first year after surgery, compared to the year before surgery, but not in the second year. Thus, the increase in alcohol use disorder symptoms following RYGB surgery was likely a result of an increase in alcohol sensitivity following surgery combined with resumption of higher levels of alcohol consumption in the second post-operative year ... This is concerning, given the negative impact heavy drinking may have on Vitamins? What vitamins do I need?" rel="external nofollow">Vitamin and mineral status, liver function and weight loss." See, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246775.php

I was told atleast a year out but an occasional glass of wine for social occasions would be ok. Remember that your tolerance is going to be VERY low so like. 1/4 glass of wine will affect you a lot more.

My surgeon says no more alcohol... ever! Not an issue for me as my family has a history of alcoholism so I've made a point to never drink much. Typically, my drinking consisted of sampling my husband's beer when he would try a new one. I stopped doing that months before my surgery and don't miss it at all.

However, I have noticed that people who do drink around me, (and I don't have any problems with people drinking around me) get very uncomfortable with the fact that I choose not to drink. For some reason it bothers them a LOT! If I don't care if they choose to drink, why should they care if I choose not to?

I had surgery in February. My surgeon told me at least 3 months no alcohol. Over the summer, I'd have an occasional drink. Half way into the beverage you're feeling the effects. Every person is different as every dr is different. Your body will tell you what's right for you.