
There have been numerous studies and extensive research on the topic of alcohol, and what it does to our bodies. But what about those who have had metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) which can remove and/or alter a portion of the stomach and/or digestive tract? Fortunately for weight loss surgery patients, the bariatric world has made enough noise for the professionals in the medical/scientific field in the past decade so that many new studies have come out with what happens to bariatric patients, too.
Alcohol Effects on Bariatric Patients
Let’s start with one out of many of the most important things to know should you decide to drink alcohol after bariatric surgery: Alcohol is absorbed much faster after weight loss surgery. After surgery, the stomach is smaller and the enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase that metabolizes alcohol is decreased and can’t break down alcohol as well, meaning you will reach the legal limit of blood alcohol levels much sooner than you did before surgery.1 Food also empties from the stomach more quickly, which allows alcohol to be absorbed more rapidly.2
Not only does alcohol intoxicate bariatric patients faster, but your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) may be higher for longer, which can increase your risk of being inebriated when driving, even if you feel you are okay to do so.2 It’s important to talk with your surgeon/care provider about drinking alcohol after your surgery to be more educated on the choice. Each bariatric patient is unique, and the type of bariatric surgeries vary.
For example, with the Gastric Bypass the lining of the stomach is where the enzyme, alcohol dehydrogenase, breaks down alcohol.1 After surgery, you have less of this enzyme available, so you are susceptible to alcohol that is not metabolized or broken down. Some alcohol is metabolized by the stomach, but most of it heads into the small intestine, and then into the bloodstream. Voila! You have a buzz. It could take you only part of a drink or even one drink to become intoxicated enough to not be able to legally drive.
Alcohol Risks After Surgery
It is always your choice what you do and don’t decide to do after weight loss surgery. After all, surgery is merely a tool that your surgeon has given to you. We give you guidance and suggestions on how to be successful, but the success of that tool is up to you. If you do decide to drink alcohol, RMAP surgeons press on patients to avoid drinking for at least six months, but suggest waiting a full year before deciding to drink alcohol:3
- Healing: Alcohol can delay wound healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Medication: Alcohol can react with pain medication after surgery.
- Ulcers: Alcohol can erode the stomach lining, which can lead to an internal bleed.
- Weight Gain: Alcohol can lead to poor sleep, which can cause hunger and weight gain/slow weight loss. It contains a lot of calories called empty calories, which is the opposite of a nutrient-dense calorie.
Your Decision to Consume Alcohol
Should you decide to consume alcohol, please remember these important suggestions:
- Drink slowly: Drink in small amounts and much slower than you normally would. Since alcohol is absorbed very fast, make sure you are taking your time between sips of alcohol over a longer period of time.
- Avoid driving: Have a designated driving arranged since your balance and brain function can be affected by very small amounts of alcohol.
- Drink only on special occasions: This can limit your drinking risks and help with any weight gain/slow weight loss.
- Choose drinks with less sugar: Avoid mixed drinks with juices, soda and added sugars.
- Know your limit: Know when to stop drinking and opt for non-alcoholic beverages instead. Limit yourself to one drink or less and see how your body handles it.
- Be sure to eat: Never drink alcohol on an empty stomach. Eating before you consume alcohol will help to slow down how quickly the alcohol is absorbed.
- Talk with your doctor: This is very important to be educated and well-informed when it comes to alcohol after bariatric surgery.
Remember that you and the surgery you and your surgeon have chosen are unique to YOU. Each body type is different, and every weight loss story is different. Be aware when it comes to drinking alcohol after bariatric surgery and always have a plan.
Links to related articles:
Carbonated Beverages, Caffeine and Alcohol after Weight Loss Surgery
The Impact of Fast Foods on Your Health
Following Up After Bariatric Surgery

Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
www.RMAP.com || 801.268.3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124
Resources
- Kristine J. Steffen, Scott G Engel, Garrett A Pollert, Li Cao, James E Mitchell; “Blood Alcohol Concentrations Rise Rapidly and Dramatically Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass,” 2015 July 1; National Library of Medicine; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4487806/
- H Klockhoff, I Naslund, A W Jones; “Faster absorption of ethanol and higher peak concentration in women after gastric bypass surgery,” 2002, Dec.; National Library of Medicine; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1874483/
- Samantha Stavola, RD; “Alcohol Intake after Bariatric Surgery,” Aug. 24, 2015; PennMedicine; https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/metabolic-and-bariatric-surgery-blog/2015/august/alcohol-intake-after-bariatric-surgery