What happens to alcohol absorption after gastric bypass surgery?

After gastric bypass surgery, alcohol absorption accelerates due to several physiological changes that occur in the gastrointestinal tract. The surgery alters the normal pathway of digestion, which includes bypassing a significant portion of the stomach and the upper small intestine. This leads to a reduction in the surface area available for absorption and modifications in the way that alcohol is processed in the body.

With the smaller stomach pouch, the alcohol is quickly passed into the small intestine, where it is absorbed more rapidly. Additionally, the rapid transit time through the gastrointestinal system means that alcohol reaches the bloodstream quicker compared to individuals who have not undergone this surgery.

Because of these changes, individuals who have had gastric bypass surgery often experience a more pronounced and rapid intoxicating effect from alcohol, which can lead to increased risk of alcohol-related complications. Thus, the effect on the absorption of alcohol post-surgery is to accelerate its absorption into the bloodstream.