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The Grape Debate: Is Wine Safe after Weight Loss Surgery?
Are you a wine lover who recently underwent bariatric surgery? You may be wondering whether it's safe to enjoy a glass of wine now and then.
Most bariatric surgeons agree that it's generally okay to have wine after the first year following your surgery. If your doctor advises against it, be sure to discuss the reasons and make a decision together. At Bariatric Eating, we believe that the few doctors who say no to wine after surgery are being overly cautious.
However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. If you have a medical condition such as liver or kidney disease, alcohol may not be safe for you. Even if your doctor approves, it's crucial to wait at least a year before having any alcohol. During that first year, your liver is under tremendous stress as it filters toxins from fat metabolization, making it important to strictly avoid alcohol.
After the first year, you can have a glass of wine or a no-sugar cocktail, but it's essential to remember that your body may not process alcohol as efficiently as it did before surgery. Without a full stomach, alcohol can enter your bloodstream quickly, leading to dangerous levels of intoxication. Always drink in moderation and never alone. Make sure to avoid blending your alcohol with full sugar mixers, and never take shots.
If you find that you are struggling to regulate your drinking after surgery, seek help from your doctor or support group. You are not alone, and there is no shame in getting the support you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle after bariatric surgery.
Most bariatric surgeons agree that it's generally okay to have wine after the first year following your surgery. If your doctor advises against it, be sure to discuss the reasons and make a decision together. At Bariatric Eating, we believe that the few doctors who say no to wine after surgery are being overly cautious.
However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. If you have a medical condition such as liver or kidney disease, alcohol may not be safe for you. Even if your doctor approves, it's crucial to wait at least a year before having any alcohol. During that first year, your liver is under tremendous stress as it filters toxins from fat metabolization, making it important to strictly avoid alcohol.
After the first year, you can have a glass of wine or a no-sugar cocktail, but it's essential to remember that your body may not process alcohol as efficiently as it did before surgery. Without a full stomach, alcohol can enter your bloodstream quickly, leading to dangerous levels of intoxication. Always drink in moderation and never alone. Make sure to avoid blending your alcohol with full sugar mixers, and never take shots.
If you find that you are struggling to regulate your drinking after surgery, seek help from your doctor or support group. You are not alone, and there is no shame in getting the support you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle after bariatric surgery.
