Can't Get Drunk!

I posted this on the main board but thought this might be a "male" issue! I have noticed since I have started trying liquor again that pretty much the only thing that will get me a "buzz" or even "drunk" is wine.  Before surgery I was a big vodka drinker and I had a very high tolerance.  Since surgery it seams that vodka doesn’t do anything for me.  In order to even feel buzzed I have to drink allot really fast and that is still a very light buzz.  Red wine seems to be the only thing that will get me buzzed or even drunk.  I have also noticed that I loose my buzz or any feeling of drunkenness in a very short period of time not matter what I am drinking.  It’s almost like I have to "work" to keep it up.  I am just curious if anyone else has experienced this and more importantly, what causes this.   It seems that most people on here have the opposite of this kind of affect from alcohol and I find it interesting that I am having these results.  I appreciate your responses and opinions.  Dan

Dan, That’s a new one for me…. Most claim to get lit on 1/4^th as much as before. I know I was able to drink like a fish and remain sober prior to WLS But since? A couple of drinks and I’m looped. As far as the ability to "keep a buzz?" Yeah, the alcohol absorbs and thus metabolizes much faster. Many post-ops claim that the ‘effects’ wear off super fast, And I have found that to be the case as well. I know you didn’t ask…but, since there’s ‘loop-hole’ call for "responses and opinions," I’d be less than honest if I didn’t include my knee-jerk response as well…. WTF?!? Just a little over 2 months post-op? And enough experience with alcohol consumption to have comparisons about the buzz-factors of different Sources? You are serious about having to "’work’ to keep it up. " Be Careful. Or better yet, give it a break for awhile. During the rapid weight-loss stages early post-op- (not to mention the healing pouch if your surgery was RNY) You could WAY screw your liver. Not just the run-of-the-mill-ordinary- "drinking hurts the liver" stuff, But serious, quick, permanent damage. The irritant effect on the new arranged intestines is also huge! "Before surgery….big vodka drinker ?" Then you may have an issue with going without. If that’s the case? Obesity may have been the least of your problems. Did your Doc "clear you" to start drinking prior to 6 months post-op? Most recommend 6 months to a 1 year wait. Are you using it for recreation? Or as a stress reliever? There are many other things that can fill those needs that won’t leave you with a dead liver in a few years…..Maybe seek some help to keep your drinking "in check?" And "in check," for the first 6 months after surgery typically means- "None at all." Not "going off on you" just passing on what I think. Yep, a buzz will leave much sooner for post-op RNYer’s. and, I’d add- Alcohol consumption at 2 months Post-Op, Will most likely F’ You up for good. If you had the WLS, then it would seem you wanted to add health to your life… Don’t bale-out on all of the great stuff ahead for a good buzz now. That’s my response / opinion. Best Wishes- Dx

I haven't been able to drink for years because of interactions with meds, but I'm wondering why you need to get a buzz.  Isn't your life good without it?  You can learn relaxation techniques if that's your problem in social situations.  I understand Dx's arguments and I concur.  But, I really don't see the need for the stuff in the first place.  Considering the popularity of bars and liquor stores, I may have a minority view.

Dan, Put down the bottle with your hands up and slowly back away!   Rules were not made to be broken - they were made to be followed (for a reason) and alcohol two months out from surgery certainly isn't in the playbook.  There will come a time and a place where alcohol in moderation is appropriate - that's a bit further down the road when it does not have adverse effects on the healing and weight loss process.  And do not discount the discussions of trading addictions...once the food is gone it's VERY easy to latch on to something else that replaces that gratification. Don't fall into this trap. Wanting and needing to lose the weight is one thing...obtaining the surgery is another...but it's the commitment and dedication to the new opportunity at life you've been given that will determine your success. Now the RED FLAG that went up for me when I read your post may be totally off base...but consider youself duly snapped in the a$$ with a towel.  I absolutely cringe when I see "flame" responses...we're here for support and fun, but I do feel strongly that the Locker Room is a good place for "straight talk", "tough love" and the occasional "kick in the a$$".   Is this one of those times?  CF

Hey Dan,  I'm going to have to agree with the others on this...why are you testing your surgery?  You have a very limited window where the weight will just fall off without any effort, to maximize it you should try not to drink calories that have no benefits (i.e. anything besides water, sugar free drinks, and protein shakes).  In addition, like Dx said, drinking in the 1st year of WLS is unadvised because it taxes the liver so much.  Scott

Whassup Dan, For most of my 3 years post op _ I had a different relationship with beer, wine, etc. After a few sips I was not buzzed but sick ie: headache, tossing cookies and sweats from a miller light. So for a while I was the designtor and learned to enjoy the night mostly seeing what idiots my friends became after 5 martinis and magaritas mixed with shots of whatever was cheaper. me and my coke(diet with ice)! A few weeks ago I hung out in Atlantic City with da fellas and another post op ordered and drank a dirty marttini. WTF..it was on - I ordered a Rum and coke.  My machoness was shortlived because I sipped that dang concaction for 2 hours..lol...but didnt get sick! (I dont think, I can't remember..lol) Rob DC

Dan, The only buzz I get is if I don't get enough protein during the day.  My friend had WLS as well, and the alcohol affects him the same.  Probably the sugar in the wine is the culpret.  Be cautious of the alcohol.  My Doc prohibits the booze.  Good thing.  I sure don't need another addiction. Kent 357/284/189

Like the others said, try to wait on it and then try something different if you must drink, I had tequila gold and was plastered in no time, just shots nothing else bu****er.