Question:
Can you ever drink an alcohol drink after the sleeve & if you can, what drink?

   — 3decks (posted on May 1, 2010)

May 1, 2010
i dont have the sleve i have rny but my dr said that after a year i can drink again i just cant have beer or anything with carbonation but just remember liquor has alot of calories the only liquor i know of that has less than everything else is vodka but if you mix it with something you have to count those calories too
   — gelicadoll

May 1, 2010
To answer your question, yes. Although I have RNY I think the limitations on alcohol are the same regardless of surgery type. My surgeon asks his patients to abstain from alcohol for one full year following surgery. The reasons are two-fold; it's thought that the risk of transfer addiction is at its highest during the first year because of the dramatic nutrition and lifestyle changes we are trying to make. Alcohol can become a comfort crutch for some folks. Secondly, alcohol is just empty calories and the goal is to get in your protein and fluids first. I'm not wasting my calories on something that isn't going to fuel me. My weight loss is slow enough as it is. The general consensus seems to be that weight loss is at it's peak during the first 18-24 months, at least for RNY patients. That said, my surgeon also advocates moderation in all food/drink. He feels you set yourself up for failure by trying to convince yourself you can "never" have this or that again forever. I agree. Lastly, know that the issue with carbonation is there can be discomfort to the pouch/sleeve because carbonation is like having gas. Beer could cause your sleeve to expand.
   — Arkin10

May 1, 2010
Like everything else you need moderation. I am just over a year out from my sleeve. I do occasionally have a drink or two. I do find I become intoxicated quicker than I used so, as I usually don't eat while drinking. The stomach just can hold much. So you have to find a balance of course like everything else. I prefer to drink spirits as there is no carbs in them. I have drank a beer or two but also the carbonation in it can cause lots of gassy problems. You just have to see what will work for you. Best of luck.
   — M_J_

May 2, 2010
I would not suggest beer.. as it can stretch your new stomach and give you bad gas pain. I have drank a few sips of wine. I'm not a big drinker to begin with, but I always like the frozen drinks like pina coladas, daqueris, mudslides, etc. But again you have to count the calories. And I too noticed it just took a few sips of wine and I was feeling a bit light headed so just be cautious.
   — callen3640

May 2, 2010
Everything in moderation, as others have said. I'm one year out yesterday and do drink red wine. It is alcohol but does have some health benefits, as long as it's not overdone of course. No beer, nothing with carbonation.
   — Char-Ree C.

May 6, 2010
I have been drinking wine, vodka, bourbon since about 7-8 months out. I'm careful when and how much with meals. I like having vodka or gin with crystal light. One of lowest calorie drinks I think.
   — Donna C.