After undergoing weight loss surgery, you might be advised to avoid soda and carbonated drinks to avoid issues like bloating and belching. While the belief that carbonation stretches the pouch after gastric sleeve surgery is a myth, the bubbles in these beverages can cause discomfort for bariatric patients.
Carbonated beverages include sparkling water, regular and diet sodas, seltzer water, carbonated alcohol etc. Basically, if your beverage fizzes or pops, it contains carbonation.
Your Bariatric Surgeon/Dietician will likely recommend a period of abstaining from carbonation during the healing process. Though, mostly bariatric surgery programs suggest avoiding carbonation for life, primarily due to the added sugars and calories present in many carbonated drinks, which can lead to weight gain and also to prevent discomfort associated with ingesting fizzy drinks.
After gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery, a significant portion of your stomach is removed. Consuming carbonation can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable as your stomach fills with carbon dioxide. High sugar and calorie content in carbonated drinks, like sodas, can contribute to weight gain. Better to opt for non-carbonated alternatives like water, zero-calorie flavored water, protein shakes, plant based milks like soy and almond milk or decaf coffees and teas without added sugars.
Caffeine acts as a diuretic, potentially leading to dehydration and stomach ulcers with excessive consumption post-surgery. Dehydration is more common after bariatric surgery due to limited fluid intake. Alcohol, being a diuretic, poses risks of rapid absorption and alcohol poisoning, especially considering the reduced stomach size post-surgery.
If you choose to consume alcohol, opt for lower sugar options, avoid sugary mixes, fizzy alcoholic beverages like Beer and Champaign, limit your intake and go slow to minimize side effects and risks. Remember, being overly restrictive on your diet can have negative effects, so choose wisely, follow the expert advice and enjoy in moderation!!
