After gastric bypass surgery, individuals may be wondering whether they can still drink coffee. This is a question with multi-faceted answers since the answer varies depending on the individual and is dependent on how an individual’s body reacts to the beverage. Coffee can be enjoyed in moderation when drinking with gastric bypass surgery.
Caffeine can be difficult to digest after such a surgery. It takes time for the stomach to heal and for the individual to adjust to a new level of energy. The best advice is to be patient and let the body heal. In the interim, it is important to be aware of the effects of caffeine on the body. Many people may experience nausea, headaches and other uncomfortable side-effects from drinking caffeine.
Some experts advise to start off slow and try small amounts first, as every body is different. Doctors may modify their recommendations around caffeine intake as the individual’s body adjusts. Until checking in with a medical practitioner, individuals must be cognizant of what their body needs or experiences when drinking caffeine.
Doctors generally agree that coffee can be consumed after undergoing the procedure, albeit in moderation. High quantities of coffee, either in the form of espresso shots or cold brew, can cause uncomfortable side-effects, such as heartburn, burping and stomach discomfort. A common recommendation is to limit coffee consumption to one 8-ounce cup per day.
Individuals should also only drink coffee on an empty stomach. This is easier for the body to digest and can help prevent heartburn and upset stomach. Additionally, milk, sugar, creamer and syrups should be avoided when drinking coffee after gastric bypass surgery, as these can worsen the side effects.
People who are concerned about the calories in their coffee can opt for a black iced coffee or an espresso. While iced coffee may tempt someone to consume more than the recommended amount in one sitting, espresso can be better for a quick pick-me-up.
Consuming coffee after gastric bypass surgery can help people get the most out of their morning routine and enjoy a good cup of joe without feeling uncomfortable. As a caveat, one must be sure to keep the consumption moderate and listen to one’s body to prevent any negative side-effects.
Savor the Flavor
Coffee consumption does not have to be black and white: there is all the difference in the world in the approach to fermentation, grinding, and extraction processes. Straying from robusta, darker roasts, or strong espresso drinks and look to coffees that are smoother on the palate, such as a light roasted Ethiopian Yirgacheffe or a medium Brazilian.
Cold brewed coffee is a low-acid option, which might be a welcome choice to those sipping coffee after gastric bypass surgery. Cold brewing coffee involves grinding the beans, infusing them in cold or room temperature water, and filtering them 12 to 24 hours later. This method of extraction is highly popular for its smooth, naturally sweet taste and caffeine kick that lasts for about 4 hours.
Many at-home concoctions can also be made that offer creative flavor combinations and loads of antioxidants. To avoid sugar and fat, opt for ingredients such as almond butter, cocoa nibs, Greek yogurt and nut meg. These flavors also prove to be a satisfying way to wind down at night.
The Best Brews
With so many commercial brews to choose from, it can be confusing and overwhelming to narrow down the best coffees after having gastric bypass surgery. While good coffee will always depend on preference, the following brands have made a name for themselves in the coffee industry.
Counter Culture Coffee offers clean, balanced, and flavorful bags of premium roast. It also operates an online store with an ever-changing selection of single origin or blends. Founded in 1995, Counter Culture prioritizes direct trade models and sustainable beans, making it an admirable choice.
Sightglass Coffee, located in San Francisco California, is another go-to source of quality coffee. They source and roast beans from around the world that are always fresh and unique. Sightglass works with farmers and their families to create meaningful connections and develop relationships.
ReAnimator Coffee is a micro-roaster based in Philadelphia and is a favorite among coffee aficionados. The company chooses beans from regions worldwide, highlighting the unique flavor of each batch. Many of their best coffees are available for purchase as single origins or blends.
Intelligentsia, located in Chicago, is another reputable coffee roaster and street-style cafe. They are known for their direct relationship with farmers, producing a range of surprisingly affordable coffees. They favor a lighter roast that emphasizes the origin of each bean, and they provide a look into the origin stories behind each cup.
Why it Matters
Since coffee is a preferred daily beverage choice among individuals, it is important to know how coffee drinking can be adjusted and adapted to gastric bypass surgery as part of one’s fitness journey. Coffee plays an important role in restoring energy and letting individuals thrive throughout the day.
By ensuring that their morning cup of coffee remains an integral part of the day and respecting doctor’s recommendations, individuals can be more informed about the benefits of coffee drinking and how to make it work for them.
How to Fit it In
Before gastric bypass surgery, individuals may have had different ways to enjoy coffee. After the surgery, individuals should practice more mindful drinking and carefully tailor their morning pick-me-up. Treating coffee drinking as an event and drinking it slowly can help the body adjust to the caffeine and maximize the experience.
Taking frequent breaks throughout the day, drinking lots of water and introducing herbal teas and smoothies can also aid digestion and keep the body energized without having to rely heavily on coffee. If possible, taking a leisurely stroll in the morning can also provide a boost of energy and can replace the need for an extra cup of joe in the morning.
Health Matters
It is important to remember that coffee is still a drug and should be treated accordingly. While drinking coffee can make the body feel energized, other external health concerns may be exacerbated when drinking too much caffeine.
The effects of caffeine can be different for everyone. Feeling anxious, irritable, or having an irregular heartbeat are all signs of caffeine overload and an indication that the body needs to take it easy. It is imperative to speak to a doctor or nutritionist to make sure one stays healthy and hydrated.
Enjoyment and Awareness
Drinking coffee is a personal experience. Everyone processes caffeine differently, and ultimately, it is important to maintain moderation, mindful drinking, and to be aware of individual body needs. A positive relationship with coffee can be established with practice and consistency.
Knowing the origin story behind each cup of coffee and tasting the nuances of each blend or blend can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a morning ritual. While enjoying coffee in moderation, individuals can still have their daily dose of energy and flavor without any more painful consequences.
