We were told no alcohol after having the surgery. It is empty calories.

I'm 6 months out and afraid to even try drinking alchol. I was told to wait and when I wanted to try, that I should call the nutritionist before I do.
I've also heard that it affects us differently, we apparently get drunk faster and with a smaller amount.
It's also a lot of empty calories, so when you're ready I would make sure you're in a safe environment until you know how you handle it and limit your intake so you don't get too many calories.
Shelley :o)

YES I HAVE HAD A FEW DRINKS AND IT DOES AFFECT YOU SOMEWHAT DIFFERENTLY. I AM NOT A BIG DRINKER BUT OVER THE SUMMER I HAVE HAD A BEER OR 2 AND I FELT THE EFFECTS VERY QUICKLY. NOT ABLE TO HANDLE NEARLY AS MUCH AS IN MY PRE-SURGERY DAYS. I WOULD SAY BE CAREFUL AND HAVE A DESIGNATED DRIVER.

Yes I know it's not ideal to drink due to the healing process, empty calories, and transfer addiction. I was just asking for experiences from others that decided to try it again. It's a social aspect I need to get used to not participating in but sometimes I miss my friends because I don't feel like hanging out with everyone when they are drinking and I can't.

I AM NEARLY 2 YEARS OUT (FEBRUARY) AND BELIEVE ME AFTER 1 MIXED DRINK MY POUCH IS FULL - EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT BUT I FIND IT HARD TO KEEP DRINKING JUST BECAUSE IT BECOMES UNCOMFORTABLE AS WELL AS FEELING A LITTLE WOOZY VERY QUICKLY. EMPTY CALORIES YES BUT I THINK WE ALL HAVE A DAB OF THIS OR THAT WHICH MAY NOT BE IN OUR BEST INTEREST OR ACCORDING TO OUR PROGRAMS. GIVE YOURSELF A LITTLE MORE TIME OR HAVE SOME VIRGIN DRINKS THAT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL AS IF YOU'RE HAVING A MIXED ONE AND ENJOY YOUR FRIENDS COMPANY FROM TIME TO TIME. YOU MAY BE SURPRISED AT WHAT A GOOD TIME YOU WILL HAVE EVEN WITHOUT THE DRINKS. THE NEW YOU MAY HAVE YOU FEELING ABOVE THE CLOUDS AND WILL REFLECT IN HOW YOU PRESENT YOURSELF WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND ALCOHOL MAY HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT.

I am six months out and I haven't tried it yet. I am afraid to. My surgeon told me to wait six months and that if I tried to drink I needed to do it at home because it does affect you different and you get drunk quick. I was never a big drinker to begin with but I'd like to have one now and then.

My doc gave me the go ahead at 6 months but I won't even lie I started at 5 months. I'm fully aware of transfer addiction and empty carbs. I was never a big drinker before surgery and I'm not now but I do go out and have a drink or drinks with friends and family. I'll still have one and people around me will be almost done with there second. Ive noticed it hits me quicker I mean WAY quicker and then the feeling goes away quicker. I know everyone's reactions can be different so if you are going to give it a go I'd .... Take it slow. Ha! I rhymed :-)~

I personally do not drink alcohol any longer and have not had any in close to 26 years (I had some serious addiction issues in my younger days). My advice, Rick, if you can take it or leave it then appoint yourself the designated driver when your friends go out. They will be appreciative and you will always know they are getting home safely. If they question you simply tell the truth, it is not recommended following GBS. Whatever you decide, remember moderation is the key. Good luck.

Michael

I was told by my surgeon that I could cheat from time to time. Just not to make it a habit of it. You should be healed. Just do NOT go any where until you are sure how it affects you. I was told just a little could knock you on your rear. I have not tried due to the fact I had a problem before. It would wreck me.

It was months post op for me. It only took a couple of oz and I was loopy. I like margaritas. The concern is that people drink too much too fast and then get majorly drunk or sick or dump. The biggest concern is the fact of transfer addiction. I've been here long enough to see it happen to people. It is a BIG concern even for someone who is only an occasional drinker.

I have had no problem with having a few drinks. I just went to Happy Hour yesterday with the girls from work. But my drinks are weaker than they used to be. Shot of vodka, half water, half soda. You can still enjoy the occasional drink, once when I overdid it, I just peed alot more. With gastric, it goes thru u alot faster. But be careful, if you are going to drink, do it at home, to see how it affects you. I cannot do shots anymore(have me running to the bathroom) or wine, comes right back up- that was embarassing! I for one, like to have the occasional drink out with friends, and it doesn't seem to bother me. I didn't have my first drink til I was about a month out, met some friends, asked the bartender for a "light" one. Didn't affect me. Just be careful friend. :)

I totally understand the feeling of being TOO sober with friends who are drinking, but once we signed up for A LIFE CHANGE this comes with the territory. Be careful on your choices. Good luck.

I appreciate the support... I think I can wait a while and if I do try it out, I will be sure to be careful.

I had my first drink 10 months post op and it hit me like a truck. Three years later I will have a few drinks maybe ever two months or so. I can see how it could be addictive because it is a very fast buzz. The only side affect for me is that I became a really good dancer/singer when I drink. Good luck and your mileage may vary.

I commend many of you for stopping the drinking. I'm 3 months out and i drink screw drivers when i'm out. i do NOT touch beer and would not recommend it. I live in a town where the only thing to do is drink or sit home, which would still involve drinking. It's what i've done socially. If you focus on low sugar clear liqour like vodka or gin, you'll be fine. It does not take much to get a buzz, but you will also sober up quicker. And you sitll have to sip, and no shots. If you do a shot, you sip it.