Why Alcohol Consumption is Harmful After Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a major, life-changing procedure that not only alters one's physical appearance but also changes how the body processes food and drink. Postoperative lifestyle modifications and dietary guidelines are essential for better health outcomes and long-term success. One of the most significant changes that patients must make is to abstain or dramatically limit alcohol consumption after surgery. In this article, we will discuss why drinking alcohol is not recommended after bariatric surgery and how it can harm our bodies.

Your Body After Bariatric Surgery

Before we delve into the reasons why alcohol is harmful after bariatric surgery, let's understand how the surgery changes our body's response to alcohol. The procedure involves reducing the size of the stomach and rerouting the digestive system to decrease the amount of food and nutrients absorbed by the body. As a result, alcohol is absorbed more quickly, leading to higher blood alcohol levels. Moreover, the liver, which is responsible for breaking down and processing alcohol, becomes less efficient after surgery.

Effects of Alcohol After Bariatric Surgery

One of the primary reasons why alcohol is discouraged after bariatric surgery is that it can harm the stomach lining, leading to ulcers and inflammation. Drinking alcohol irritates the stomach lining and can damage the small intestine's protective barriers, allowing harmful bacteria or toxins to enter the bloodstream, causing infections or other complications. Moreover, alcohol can slow down the healing process after surgery, increasing the risk of infections and complications.

Another significant reason why you should avoid alcohol after bariatric surgery is that it affects the body's absorption of nutrients vital for optimal health. Alcohol is high in empty calories and interferes with the absorption of vitamins and minerals, such as folate, thiamine, vitamin B12, and iron, essential for proper functioning of the body's organs and systems. Studies suggest that heavy drinking can lead to nutrient deficiencies, such as anemia and bone loss, which can be detrimental to long-term health outcomes.

Serious Consequences of Alcohol After Bariatric Surgery

Long-term alcohol use can also damage the liver and increase the risk of developing liver disease, which can be fatal. After surgery, the liver's workload increases due to a reduction in food intake and alterations in the body's metabolism. The liver is essential for breaking down the fat that is released after weight loss surgery, which helps prevent the development of fatty liver disease. Consuming alcohol after bariatric surgery can increase the liver's workload, causing liver damage and impairing its ability to function correctly.

In conclusion, alcohol consumption after bariatric surgery can harm our bodies and increase the risk of developing complications. It can damage the stomach lining, slow down healing, decrease nutrient absorption, and increase the workload of the liver, leading to liver disease. As a result, patients are advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption significantly after surgery. It is essential to follow the dietary guidelines and modifications prescribed by your bariatric surgeon to achieve better health outcomes and long-term success. Remember, bariatric surgery is not a quick fix but a lifestyle change that requires dedication and commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you have questions about bariatric surgery, contact Houston Weight Loss.