drinking wine

Hi has anyone had a glass of wine post op? I am 3 months out and I would like to start having a glass every so often, but I am afraid. What about liquor? I used to drink 7/7's but I had to stay away from soda/carbonation.When can we start trying these things again? Kathleen

Kathleen: In our program they recommend avoiding alcohol for 1 yr postop. (The reasons: alcohol is a gastric irritant, can add to dehydration, empty/non-nutrative calories stalling wt loss/assisting in possible regain, risk of dumping as many alcohols or mixed drinks are HIGH in sugar, others are carbonated (beer/champagne) so they ask us to void that as well, risk of intoxication could be higher sooner due to rapid absorbtion, the alcohol may loosen one up to eat foods they normally wouldn't, it can interfere with vitamin/mineral absorbtion also which we are already at risk for deficiencies in B12, thiamine, vit A, zinc, magnesium... etc...and finally we are taxing our already most likely 'fatty' livers with the rapid wt loss, risk of chirrosis is greater early on), so 'I' haven't tried alcohol in my 3.5 yrs postop, but it never was a big issue or deal for me preop, what I liked was a daquiri or pinacolada, neither would I try postop due to the sugar content in mixes. Now there are lo carb mixes out there. I'd keep from sweet wines (like white zin, trying dryer white wine perhaps first), I'd skip beer due to carbonation. I wish you well in whatever you decide! I have a friend 10 yr postop, she cant stomach any liquor, she gets immediate red face, flushed feeling and severe headache. Of course there are people who drink early on and OFTEN! (one reason I started an OSSG ADDICTIONS group!) many many post wlsers trade addictions! (*I am not saying this is you, I am just stating a fact)...... Mr. Atkins stated in an article I saved: "If you must drink alcohol, wine is an acceptable addition to levels beyond the Induction diet. If wine does not suit your taste, straight liquor such as scotch, rye, vodka, and gin would be appropriate, as long as the mixer is sugarless; this means no juice, tonic water; or non-diet soda. " SO I am guessing they are lower sugar/carb/Glycemic Index alcohol beverages? Maybe try them????I know we arent' to do soda so rum and coke is out! ~~~~~~~~ Here is an article I have that explains things better...for anyone who is interested... http://www.bbvitamins.com/research_Article_5.aspx Alcohol Use in the Bariatric Patient Cynthia Buffington, Ph.D. or this one: http://www.bbvitamins.com/research_Article_4.aspx Precautions When Using Alcohol after Bariatric Surgery? Cynthia Buffington, Ph.D. I posted this previously about 2 weeks ago to another person who had severe ? HEADACHE/?Dumping form a drink. If you can at least wait the year to see if you can maximize your HONEYMOON wt loss! ANd for pouchie to heal, and liver to not be so overworked! Talk with your surgeon on his recommendations, many have patientes sign a contract stating they won't drink for a yr or ever! Take Care, Jamie Lap RNY 10/9/02 Dr. Singh 320/163 5'9'' (lost 45# before surgery) Plastics 6/9/04 & 11/11/2005 Dr. King http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/members/profile.php?N=c1132518510 "Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect, it just means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections!"

Thanks Jamie, I am not a huge drinker but once in while I like a drink or two. Thanks for the articles. Have a Great Day!!!! Kathleen

I had a glass of wine about 8 months out...when my hubby and I were in Aruba. I couldnt believe how fast it hit me!! I dont drink it often...maybe once ever 2 months or so. Just try a little sip and see how if sits. Enjoy!! Lisa 371/341/187/140

Hi Kathleen, I don't drink--but from some of the posts that I've seen --It may not be a very good Idea. At least not so soon after surgery. Alcohol seems to go straight threw our systems and impairs us. Most people get totally loopy after one little drink. And as for carbonated drinks--those cause cramps , the runs and a whole host of problems. You have to decide what's best for you--but I would be VERY CAUTIOUS! Be Blessed, Marian S.C. 242.4/173/goal 125-130??

Thanks Lisa and Marian, I love this web site because it's nice people like yourselves who help people like me out. Thanks again Kathleen

Hi Kathleen You are welcome--and yes, I get lots of good information and ideas on these boards--It is a wonderful family to have in your corner! Be Blessed,Hugs, Marian