Coffee is an essential piece in the daily diet of plenty of people worldwide and there are so many reasons why people drink coffee: either to feel energized during a regular day, to drink it as a regular beverage, and according to a study made in 2022, “coffee consumption statistics show that around 30-40% of the world’s population consume coffee every day”[1].
Your Body and Coffee
What’s caffeine? It’s a stimulant that works as a cognitive enhancer, meaning that it increases alertness and reduces drowsiness. We mainly get caffeine from the coffee bean and consume it in coffee, tea, and cola whenever we need an energy boost. The amount of caffeine a person needs to remain alert depends on their body size and tolerance and its effects can last up to four hours. While we mainly consume caffeine to remain alert while we carry out tasks, it has also proven to be beneficial in the medical field. Research has found that caffeine can be effective in protecting against diseases such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.
Nevertheless, you might be wondering how coffee and bariatric surgeries are related or what happens if you drink coffee after just having a gastric sleeve. Drinking coffee after having a gastric sleeve procedure can have varying effects on patients. Recognizing that the body’s response to coffee might differ based on factors such as your body’s tolerance is important. Being aware of the amount of coffee consumed, and how far along you are in your post-operative recovery are essential factors too in order to avoid complications in the recovery process.
Before making a decision about when or how to drink coffee, keep in mind your surgeon´s prescription for your diet. But if you are determined to drink coffee, here are some of the post-operative symptoms of drinking coffee after a gastric sleeve:
Stomach Sensitivity
After a gastric sleeve surgery, your stomach size is significantly reduced (almost 80% of it), which can make it more sensitive to certain foods and beverages. Coffee is acidic and can sometimes cause discomfort, irritation, or even mild pain, especially if consumed on an empty stomach.
Digestive Effects
Coffee is a stimulant due to its caffeine content. It can increase heart rate and potentially affect blood pressure. In addition, coffee can stimulate the digestive system, potentially leading to increased bowel movements or even diarrhea[2]. Since gastric sleeve surgery can impact digestion, these effects might be more pronounced in some individuals.
Hydration
Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it can increase urine production and potentially lead to dehydration. Staying well-hydrated is particularly important after weight loss surgeries, so if you choose to consume coffee, make sure you’re also drinking plenty of water.
How Soon Can You Drink Coffee After a Gastric Sleeve?
As we mentioned, there is no exact time to start drinking coffee after a gastric sleeve surgery because it can vary based on the individual recovery progress and recommendations from the healthcare provider.
However, a study by the Surgical Association[3] indicates, “caffeine should not be consumed within the first 4-6 weeks after surgery. If you must, a small cup of decaf (black, no sugar) is fine”.
Since your diet will likely consist of clear liquids, such as water, broth, and sugar-free beverages, coffee is generally not advised during this time, due to its potential to cause irritation or discomfort to your healing stomach.
As you progress in your recovery, your surgeon will guide you through transitioning to full liquids and eventually soft foods. At this stage, you might start introducing coffee in small quantities, but it’s essential to monitor how your body reacts. Remember that your stomach is still healing, so it’s essential to avoid anything that could cause irritation[4].
After your surgeon approves the transition to solid foods, you can continue to include coffee as part of your diet, but you should still be cautious[5]. Your stomach’s capacity is reduced after the surgery, so you might be more sensitive to caffeine and acidic foods like coffee.
Drinking coffee after gastric sleeve surgery is effective for stimulating the recovery of gastrointestinal function after abdominal surgery. If you do decide to reintroduce coffee, start with small amounts and monitor how your body responds. However, always consult your surgeon or dietitian before adding coffee or any new beverage to your diet after gastric sleeve surgery[6]. If you experience any discomfort, it’s advisable to reduce or eliminate coffee consumption until you receive further guidance from your healthcare team.
Contact Us to Learn More
If you want to learn more about drinking coffee after gastric sleeve surgery, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.
References
[1] “World Coffee Consumption Statistics”. https://coffee-rank.com/world-coffee-consumption-statistics/. (Accessed July 29, 2023).
[2] “Coffee”. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/coffee/. (Accessed July 29, 2023).
[3, 6] “WHERE CAFFEINE FITS INTO YOUR POST-OP LIFESTYLE”. https://sampadocs.com/2021/10/15/where-caffeine-fits-in-to-your-post-op-lifestyle/. (Accessed July 29, 2023).
[4] Nehlig A. Effects of Coffee on the Gastro-Intestinal Tract: A Narrative Review and Literature Update. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 17;14(2):399. doi: 10.3390/nu14020399. PMID: 35057580; PMCID: PMC8778943.
[5] “Sleeve gastrectomy”. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/sleeve-gastrectomy/about/pac-20385183. (Accessed July 29, 2023).