Alcohol Consumption After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

After sleeve gastrectomy, individuals must adapt to lifestyle changes. Often, these individuals wonder whether it is safe to continue consuming alcohol.

Experts state that alcohol consumption post-surgery can have serious effects on the digestive system. Therefore, alcohol should be consumed carefully and in limited amounts.

Additionally, alcohol intake should be gradually increased and continuously monitored to prevent any health issues. In summary, alcohol consumption after sleeve gastrectomy is possible but should be controlled.

Table of Content

Effects on Metabolism

Sleeve gastrectomy significantly alters metabolism. These changes also affect how the body processes alcohol. Firstly, after surgery, alcohol enters the bloodstream more quickly, causing the effects of alcoholic beverages to be felt more intensely.
Secondly, alcohol levels rise faster and take longer to return to normal levels. This process leads to patients getting intoxicated more quickly. Additionally, because post-surgery patients generally consume less food:

Alcohol is absorbed more quickly by the stomach and intestines.
Reduced food intake increases the effects of alcohol.

Therefore, alcohol consumption during the post-surgery period requires serious caution, and patients are advised to consider these changes when consuming alcohol.

Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Blood Sugar Levels Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy

Alcohol consumption after sleeve gastrectomy can significantly affect blood sugar levels. Rapid weight loss and low carbohydrate intake post-surgery reduce glycogen stores in the body.
Alcohol consumption further depletes these stores, leading to a drop in blood sugar levels. This situation increases the risk of hypoglycemia in patients who have undergone surgery. Hypoglycemia is a serious health issue that can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage, and even death. Its symptoms include:

Loss of coordination and balance
Slurred speech
Confusion
Blurred vision

If symptoms of hypoglycemia are observed, immediate measures should be taken to raise blood sugar levels:

Drink diluted fruit juice
Take a glucose tablet
Consume a snack containing complex carbohydrates and protein

If hypoglycemia symptoms are frequently experienced and continue without alcohol consumption, immediate medical intervention is necessary. Being aware of these complications and taking the necessary precautions is essential for maintaining a healthy life.

Calorie Increase and Transfer of Addiction: Risks of Alcohol Consumption Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy

Patients who undergo sleeve gastrectomy should be aware of some risks they may encounter post-operation. Since alcohol is high in calories and low in nutritional value, it can negatively impact the weight loss process.
This situation makes it difficult to achieve weight loss goals. Moreover, reduced food intake post-surgery can lead individuals to develop other addictions:

Excess calories from alcohol consumption slow down the weight loss process.
Alcohol can also lead to weight gain.

These effects can hinder the achievement of health goals. Post-surgery, patients are often inclined to change their habits, which can lead to the emergence of new addictions. Especially in individuals with a history of addiction:

The risk of developing a new addiction increases.
These new addictions can include alcohol, gambling, shopping, and more.

Therefore, it is important for alcohol consumption to be limited and controlled post-surgery. Professional support and guidance are crucial for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle during this period.

Recommendations for Alcohol Consumption

Starting alcohol consumption after obesity surgery requires great care. Avoid alcohol consumption for the first six months to allow your body to adapt to the new situation.
After this period, it is important to get approval from your doctor before starting alcohol consumption. When consuming alcohol, certain precautions should be taken:

Avoid using carbonated drinks and high-sugar mixers.
Even small amounts of alcohol can cause intoxication and lower your blood sugar.
Avoid driving after consuming alcohol.
Consume alcohol only during meals to slow its absorption.
Pay attention to the high calorie content of alcohol.
If you find yourself frequently consuming alcohol during emotional or stressful times, seek support from your doctor.

These guidelines are established to help maintain a healthy lifestyle post-surgery.