Ok so obviously if you drink it must be in moderation, and the tolerance for it goes way down after surgery. I also know about empty calories and that alcohol should be avoided if possible for this and many other health related reasons. I know all of this.

My question is specifically, after lap-band surgery, are there any harms that come from drinking alcohol that you wouldn't have had before hand (besides lower tolerance)? Such as "LB does such and such and therefore the liver blah blah". Any good medical reasons are what I'm looking for. I don't plan to have any yet, I'm really just curious. TIA!!!

To be honest i havent heard any medical problems with drinking and i have done a ton of research. And i mite be different than others but i had surgery on feb 25 2009 and have recently started experimenting with alcohol and my tolerance hasnt changed a bit!! i was hoping to feel it quicker so it would be cheaper to go out but no such luck! lol

No issues. Some people think it hits them faster but it really is psychological. It DOES hit bypass patients more quickly because their digestive system is rerouted, but alcohol isn't any more or less dangerous for bandsters than for people without WLS, and you'll "process" it pretty much the same. I know that when I was younger and drank often I could drink A LOT and now I can't; so maybe some people who drink regularly stop for a few months while banding and then they are kind of out of the habit...but otherwise no issues.

This is interesting, I think: I didn't read it through but believe it's a fairly accurate depiction of what happens when you drink:

http://www.oregoncounseling.org/ArticlesPapers/Documents/ETOHBIOFx.htm

Edited May 9, 200917 yr by RestlessMonkey

Honestly, I've had a few nights out with with the girls and drank more than I should have (including tonight LOL) but it didn't hit me any faster than it did before. I think it's more a bypass problem than a band problem. Moderation is key though!

Kind of the answers I was expecting. Thanks everyone for replying!

I'm not a big drinker, but I did have a few when I was in Las Vegas. I think it did affect me a little more/sooner, but I figured it was because I was eating quite a bit less. If you drink on an empty stomach, it makes sense that you would need less, or that it would hit you sooner. I did ask before I went and was told not to have beer or any other carbonated beverages - they said it would be best to have wine or a fruit juice kind of drink. I had vodka/cranberry - yum!! I do agree - moderation is good :glare: Have fun!! Becky

My doctor encourages the occassional wine or two...!

I haven't found I have a reduced tolerance. I wish I did. Then I'd be happy to stop after a couple :glare: I drink far too much than someone who is trying to lose weight should!!

some nights i can drink one glass & im drunk then other times i can have 2 glasses.. i used to be able to drink a bottle & not have much effect...

i believe its cos im not having much food to soak it all up