Question:
Are there any Pre-op gastro risks from drinking diet sodas?

I am hooked on diet sodas and I drink about a 6-pack a day. I've now switched to Diet Rite (no sodium/no caffeine); however, when your out & about.. it's very hard to find. I'm considering WLS and I've read that your not supposed to drink anything carbonated Post-Op; but was wondering what an excessive amount could do to your insides normally.    — Peri B. (posted on June 23, 1999)

June 23, 1999
Many of us can't tolerate the cabonation right after surgery. But later, they're fine. You may have to let them get flat before you can drink for awhile. Some doctors fobid them forever, based on the idea that the carbonation can affect the integrity of the staple line. However, I'd say that you will NOT be doing 6 per day! You'll be using that space to get in your protein, vitamins and water! You won't even miss 'em for the first few weeks!
   — vitalady

June 23, 1999
I used to drink diet soda non stop. Now it is way too sweet, and the bubbles make me very uncomfortable. The most I have now is a sip from someone else's can on occasion.
   — dboat

June 23, 1999
I still drink Diet Pepsi, but have found that I don't have much of a desire for it anymore. Diane
   — Diane N.

June 23, 1999
From everything I have been reading about carbonated drinks--diet or otherwise--the carbonation depletes the body of oxygen; something none of us needs. Oxygen helps the body rid itself of fat. Try drinking spring water with a little lemon. You will be in my prayers.
   — Alyce K.

August 1, 2000
I asked my surgeon about this also for fear of stretching my stomach. I was a 1-2 liter bottle/day soda drinker pre-op and now limit myself to one can of diet coke a day post op. My surgeon and nutritionist both said one can, maybe two will not stretch the stomach...if you can tolerate it, it's ok, but for some, it does cause gas and some stomach discomfort.
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 16, 2003
I am two months post op, i took a sip of sprite and that made me dump, I have no desire to ever try soda again. i like taking different juices and doing half diluted with water so theres low sugar. good luck.
   — Christine H.