Question:
Alcoholic Beverage

I'm 6 weeks out from RNY. However, I need to relax with a glass of something, but I'm afraid. What works for any of you? I researched the nutrition in wine and vodka and both seem ok, but the mixers are the doozies. Any suggestions?    — Bootsee01 (posted on May 1, 2009)

May 1, 2009
To be honest, I would suggest that you relax with a nice cup of hot cocoa or tea. At 6 weeks post op, you really should not be drinking alcohol. I have seen a lot of information that says you should wait at least one year. It can be damaging to your pouch and you'll be amazed at how quickly it hits you. It won't even take one glass.
   — Brandy H.

May 2, 2009
It was recommended by my Nut, that alcohol should not be introduced back til a year post op...I followed that recomendation and tried a little wine after a year and found that it took me over two years before I could even tolerate any alcohol. It burned the living heck outta my pouch! But At 5 years I can drink on occassion...Alcohol blocks absorption of nutrients...and with my trouble with malabsorption WITHOUT any extra help, I won't drink alcohol but on rare occasions...I will not go thru malnutrition again if I can help it! But I enjoy a glass of wine now and then and in moderation I will use caution... I hope you do as well... You already have a malabsorptive anatomy...and trust me when I say it is real and it can be dangerous...Alcohol could make it worse...One thing I have noticed, is that while I malabsorb nutrients, calories don't seem to be all that affected! I have been very low or deficient on several vitamins at once and anemic to boot and still gained 10 lbs at the same time...so careful there! Malabsorption of nutrients and calories are not exactly equal in my experience! Especially when drinking alcohol which not only blocks absorption of nutrients, but adds calories and has very little nutritional value! Moderation!!
   — .Anita R.

May 3, 2009
I am a year out and alcohol burns my pouch. I would not recommend it until at least 1 year post op.
   — okbuffy