Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for weight loss, helping many achieve significant and lasting results. However, maintaining these results requires making permanent changes to your diet and lifestyle. One of the maybe not-so-obvious changes is avoiding soda and fizzy drinks. While this advice is widely accepted, it’s important to note that the necessity of completely avoiding these beverages is somewhat controversial. Some patients find that these drinks don’t bother them, while others experience significant discomfort.
1) Why should you avoid soda & fizzy drinks after gastric sleeve surgery?
After gastric sleeve surgery, your stomach is significantly smaller, holding only a fraction of what it did before. This new stomach size means that what you consume has a much greater impact on your health and weight loss progress. Here’s why many experts recommend avoiding soda and fizzy drinks:
- Empty calories: Soda and fizzy drinks are typically high in sugar and calories but offer little to no nutritional value. Consuming them can quickly add unnecessary calories to your diet, potentially slowing down or even reversing your weight loss.
- Carbonation issues: The carbonation in these drinks can cause discomfort, bloating, and gas. With your stomach now much smaller, these effects can be more pronounced and potentially painful.
- Increased hunger: Sugary drinks can spike your blood sugar levels, leading to increased hunger and cravings, making it harder to stick to your dietary plan.
2) How can soda & fizzy drinks affect your stomach after surgery?
The smaller stomach size after gastric sleeve surgery means there’s less room for food and drinks, and it’s much more sensitive to what you put into it. Consuming soda and fizzy drinks can lead to several uncomfortable and potentially harmful effects:
- Gas & bloating: The carbonation in fizzy drinks releases gas when consumed. In a normal-sized stomach, this might just cause mild discomfort, but in a post-surgery stomach, it can lead to significant bloating and pain.
- Stomach expansion: Over time, regularly consuming carbonated beverages can cause your stomach to stretch. This can reduce the effectiveness of the surgery and potentially lead to weight regain.
- Acid reflux: The acidic nature of soda and fizzy drinks can exacerbate acid reflux, which is a common issue after gastric sleeve surgery. This can lead to discomfort, heartburn, and damage to the esophagus over time.
3) What are the risks of consuming soda & fizzy drinks post-surgery?
Drinking soda and fizzy drinks after gastric sleeve surgery doesn’t just pose a risk to your comfort — it can also affect your overall health and weight loss success:
- Weight gain: The high sugar content and empty calories in soda can contribute to weight gain, undermining the progress you’ve made post-surgery.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Filling up on sugary, fizzy drinks means you’re not consuming nutrient-rich foods and beverages that your body needs for recovery and long-term health.
- Dehydration: Soda and caffeinated fizzy drinks can act as diuretics, leading to dehydration. Staying hydrated is crucial after surgery, and these drinks can make it more challenging to meet your hydration goals.
4) The controversy: Do you really need to avoid soda & fizzy drinks?
While many bariatric experts advise against consuming soda and fizzy drinks, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone experiences negative effects. Some patients find that they can enjoy these beverages in moderation without discomfort or weight regain. However, it’s crucial to approach them cautiously and be aware of how your body responds.
5) Alternatives to soda & fizzy drinks.
The good news is that there are plenty of delicious and satisfying alternatives to soda and fizzy drinks that won’t jeopardize your health or weight loss goals.
6) What beverages are recommended after gastric sleeve surgery?
After surgery, it’s important to focus on hydration with beverages that are gentle on your stomach and support your recovery:
- Water: The best choice for staying hydrated and supporting your weight loss. Add a slice of lemon, lime, or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
- Herbal teas: Caffeine-free herbal teas can be a soothing and flavorful alternative to soda.
- Broth: Low-sodium broths are hydrating and provide essential electrolytes, making them an excellent option in the early stages post-surgery.
7) Are there any healthy soda alternatives?
If you’re craving something with a bit more flavor, there are healthier options that can satisfy without the risks associated with soda:
- Flavored water: Opt for water infused with natural fruit flavors or try pre-made flavored water with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Sparkling water: If you miss the fizz, sparkling water can be a great alternative. Look for options that are free of added sugars and artificial ingredients.
- Diluted fruit juice: Diluting 100% fruit juice with water can give you a hint of sweetness without overloading on sugar or calories.
8) How can you satisfy your craving for carbonation without soda?
If carbonation is what you’re craving, it’s still possible to enjoy that fizzy sensation in a way that’s safe and healthy post-surgery:
- Lightly carbonated drinks: Some people find that lightly carbonated beverages, like sparkling water with a hint of flavor, can satisfy their cravings without the negative effects of soda.
- Cold & crisp drinks: Sometimes the craving for carbonation is more about the sensation of a cold, crisp drink. Try iced herbal teas or chilled, flavored water for a refreshing alternative.
Avoiding soda and fizzy drinks after gastric sleeve surgery is generally recommended to protect your long-term health and weight loss success. However, it’s also important to recognize that individual experiences vary. If you choose to consume these beverages, do so with caution and pay close attention to how your body reacts. By understanding the risks and making smart beverage choices, you can continue to thrive on your weight loss journey. Remember, there are plenty of satisfying alternatives out there that won’t compromise your progress.
Article By: Whittany Gibson, RDN
Whittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who specializes in bariatric nutrition counseling, and owner of Level Up Bariatrics, LLC, a bariatric lifestyle coaching program that provides pre and post-op support for weight loss surgery patients. Learn more on Instagram (@level_up_bariatrics).
BariMelts provides general recommendations, not to be construed as medical advice. Please consult your doctor.