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Alchohol Consumption and Duodenal Switch Operation

2.25.2011

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A recurring question is the topic of alcohol consumption after weight loss surgery - specifically in our case the duodenal switch operation. In the past I have addressed the question of alcohol consumption after the duodenal switch operation. It is my recommendation that a duodenal switch patient is to refrain from any alcohol consumption for the first 18-24 months of the weight loss surgery. The rationale for my recommendation is as follows:

  1. Alcohol is metabolized in the liver. During any rapid weight loss, whether surgically or medically induced, the liver is stressed in order to meet the nutritional needs of a body in " starvation mode." This is noticed by elevated liver enzyme levels (LFT's) in the blood. Our own research has shown that this transient elevation of the liver enzyme returns to normal in six to nine months after surgery. The last thing a patient should do is stress the liver by alcohol consumption. The research can be found here.

  2. Alcohol is absorbed relatively easily. It is converted to calories at a value of 7 kcal per gram. There are more calories in 1 gram of alcohol, than in 1 gram of protein or 1 gram carbohydrate.

     
    Food Calories per 1 gram
    Fat 9
    Protein 4
    Carbohydrates 4
    Alcohol 7

    What this represents is a significant increase in unnecessary caloric intake. This in turn reduces the weight loss and in a stable condition, causes weight gain.

  3. Rapid and easy alcohol absorption will result in a rapid rise in blood alcohol level. This has been observed in a study that was just published in the Journal of the American College of surgeons (volume 212, #2, February 2011 Pages 209-214), Woodward, et.al.

    The study reported:

    "Post RNYGB patients have much higher peak BAC (breath alcohol content) after ingesting alcohol and require more time to become sober. Patients who drink alcohol after gastric bypass surgery should exercise caution."

    This particular article, only reported on gastric bypass operation and not the duodenal switch procedure.