FAQ: When can I have coffee? Anyone else told no coffee?

When can I have coffee? Anyone else told no coffee?

Like the great straw debate, there have been many opinions on the use of coffee.

Let's face it, some of us need that morning cup of liquid gold to get the day going so let's talk our way through this.

Immediately following surgery, most surgical teams will advise against having coffee right away as it can irritate a fresh off the operating table pouch. Caffeine does impede healing so it is common to be asked to take an approximate 6-week break.

It is often commented that coffee is a diuretic and causes dehydration. However, this has been shown to not be true. While dehydration is the #1 reason for bariatric post-ops to end up back in a hospital bed, it is important to focus on getting in all fluids. It's not the coffee, its lack of TOTAL fluids. Make sure you work up to at least 6 to 8 cups of water each day as soon as possible.

Some surgical teams are not concerned about drinking coffee while others are hardcore. While it does have the small potential to cause ulcers, unless you are drinking several pots a day with no other source of fluids, you are unlikely to develop an ulcer from coffee as the sole culprit. If you already have issues with ulcers or acid, that's a whole other ballgame and coffee is not for you.

What is more important about drinking coffee is the use of creamers. Some of us tend to like just a little coffee with our creamer and are drinking a significant amount of calories just by having our daily java. Unlike other coffee creamers, using Inspire flavors in your coffee give you a protein bang for your creamer buck. It allows for that enjoyment of coffee with a lovely natural flavor without turning one cup into a 300 calorie disaster.

It is always best to ask your surgical team about their stance on drinking coffee and when you can have it if you are newly post op.