People who are morbidly obese may choose bariatric surgery as a means to shed excess weight. Surgical approaches for weight loss surgery include gastric bypass, or Roux-en-Y, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding or biliopancreactic diversion. Each type of surgery poses special dietary restrictions following surgery. Limiting certain foods and beverages is necessary to prevent postsurgical complications.
Effects of Caffeine
According to an article in the April 2003 "Critical Care Nursing Quarterly," modifying the diet is necessary for success following bariatric surgery. Caffeine, among other foods and beverages, should be avoided. People who have had this type of surgery are at risk for dehydration due to the need to limit liquids at mealtimes, often making it difficult to consume the necessary amount of liquid per day. Caffeine also inhibits the absorption of iron and may contribute to iron deficiency anemia. Caffeine increases the amount of gastric acid in the stomach, causing acid reflux for some individuals.
Beverages High in Caffeine
Many beverages contain caffeine but differ in amount depending on product and brand. Typically, a regular 8-oz. cup of coffee ranges from 100 to 200 mg of caffeine. Tea contains 18 to 120 mg of caffeine per 8 oz. Soda contains 23 to 71 mg of caffeine in each 12-oz. can. Energy drinks vary anywhere from 74 to 160 mg of caffeine per serving.
Other Sources of Caffeine
Food and medicine may also contain caffeine and should be limited in the postsurgical diet. Chocolate may contain 9 to 31 mg of caffeine per oz. Dark chocolate contains more caffeine than milk chocolate. Coffee-based ice cream contains 58 to 84 mg of caffeine per 1/2-cup serving. Medication such as Anacin, Excedrin and No-Doz contain up to 200 mg of caffeine per dose. Avoid these foods and take these medications only under physician supervision.
Special Considerations
Products that are labeled decaffeinated may still contain caffeine. For example, decaffeinated coffee and tea contain 2 to 12 mg of caffeine per 8 oz. Green tea may contain upwards of 25 mg of caffeine per cup. People who have undergone bariatric surgery should be aware of these hidden sources of caffeine and not use them as part of the recommended hydration routine.
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