Gastric Sleeve Surgery takes a toll on the body.
To give yourself the best chance of a smooth recovery in the weeks and months that follow, there are a number of things that you can and cannot do. For instance, we know that eating solid foods after Gastric Sleeve can cause complications, while some people struggle to drink water immediately following surgery.
In this article, we take a look at one of the most Googled questions for those who have had Gastric Sleeve Surgery – can I drink soda or soft drinks after surgery? We’ll look at the background to the question and provide sound medical advice that you need to keep in mind after surgery.
Can I Drink Soda After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Generally speaking, it is recommended that you do not drink soda after gastric sleeve surgery. While it may be ok to have a very small amount of soft drink/soda after you’ve had surgery, we recommend steering clear altogether.
Soda is high in sugar and, for many patients, is a contributing factor towards weight gain. Excessive soft drink consumption is an aggravating factor in Australia’s obesity numbers, and we strongly recommend cutting it out of your diet immediately following surgery.
Additionally, soda can cause dehydration and may cause gastrointestinal issues which can cause aggravation. If you cannot resist and you must indulge in a soda after gastric sleeve surgery, then we recommend that you opt for a low sugar option or leave the drink to go flat so that it is not carbonated when you consume it.
What Is the Best Thing to Drink Post Gastric Sleeve?
When it comes to hydrating after gastric sleeve surgery, you have a few options that are not going to cause aggravation.
Firstly, water – the no brainer. Clear liquids like water or soup broth are a popular choice for patients to get their liquids on board without causing any aggravation. Conversely, some people find that sticking to thicker liquids like smoothies or shakes is more comfortable. Ultimately, you need to listen to your body to see what is most comfortable and works the best for you.
Avoid carbonated and alcoholic beverages after surgery to give yourself the best chance at a smooth recovery. If you’re not sure or haven’t found your sweet spot for liquids, then you can always chat with your surgeon for personalised recommendations.
What are Some Alternatives to Soda?
There are a few alternatives available to you if you’re looking for a flavoured or bubbly alternative to soda after gastric sleeve surgery. Some of the most popular options include:
- Water – you can’t go wrong with water
- Tea – get your caffeine fix without all of the sugar and calories that come with soda.
- Coffee – limited amounts of coffee – so long as you don’t load it with sugar, is an acceptable beverage after gastric sleeve surgery.
How Long Do I Need to Avoid Soda After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
It’s important to avoid soda after gastric sleeve for at least six weeks following your procedure. This will help to ensure that your stomach is not placed under and extra stress and has the opportunity to heal properly without the risk of complications. After the first six weeks, you may be able to slowly reintroduce small amounts of soft drinks back into your diet, but it is important to speak with your doctor before you do this.
In general, we strongly recommend patients to avoid soft drinks as much as possible. Gastric sleeve surgery is the beginning of a transformative lifestyle which can completely transform your outlook. We always recommend that patients look at their gastric sleeve as a fresh start. If you have a soda habit that you have been looking to kick, then post-gastric sleeve is the perfect time to make that happen. Find the best gastric sleeve surgeons in Newcastle to support you in achieving your goals.