When considering bariatric surgery, people are often curious about incorporating alcohol safely to their lifestyle. Although you will be able to consume it, it must be done gradually and in a modified way, it should be added to your consumption only after three months after surgery.
The Risks of Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is high in calories also, for which reason you should consume very little of it in order to avoid weight gain. According to research, because of altered metabolism after surgery, blood alcohol levels peak higher and faster and take longer to return to normal. Make sure you eat enough food before consuming alcohol, as little food intake makes alcohol absorption faster in the bloodstream. It is known that a single drink can elevate blood alcohol levels to the point of legal intoxication.
When losing weight you may have low blood sugar levels, and if you consume alcohol blood sugar levels drop further, this makes bariatric patients be prone to develop hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is a condition that can lead to loss of consciousness, brain and nerve damage, and even death when left untreated. Symptoms include loss of coordination and balance, slurred speech, poor vision, and confusion.
On the other hand, alcoholic beverages that are high in sugar may cause dumping syndrome.
The Lowest Calorie Alcoholic Beverages
- Champagne is your first option as it only has 84 calories per glass (5 ounces)
- Vodka soda (vodka, club soda, and lime) is next with only 97 calories per 1.5 oz vodka.
- Bloody mary (Tomato juice and vodka) 123 calories
- Johnny Walker Black and Diet Coke is a great option as one shot of the drink is only 69 calories.
- Light beer varies from 55 to 103 calories and there are many options.
- A glass of wine has 160 calories
- You can also try light versions of some drinks such as a Cosmopolitan (vodka, club soda and a splash of cranberry juice) Instead of filling your drink with juice which is high in calories just add a splash to keep those calories in check.
- Try a Moscow Mule with ginger beer, vodka, lime juice, and lots of ice, skipping the simple syrup. Without the simple syrup, it’s only around 80 calories.