I have been reading alot about alcohol and cancer, some studies say not to drink any alcohol at all after a cancer diagnosis and others say moderate intake is fine. I am not a big drinker, a little wine once in awhile but since my surgery I am afraid to have a social drink. My ENT made me laugh when I asked him the question, he said, if I did not have a drink now and then I would get heart disease. Funny! I guess never ask an Irishman if you can have a drink!!

It has been found that a glass or two of wine is indeed good for the heart. He was not kidding! As far as drinking after getting cancer....That is a good question???

Adele,

My Docs told me none at first, then only on social occasions. He said "it's not your heart that we're worried about". At the 1 3/4 mark, I asked my surgeon who said moderately is ok. I asked for def. of moderate and was told 1-2 glasses of wine/wk was his moderate. I now probably drink 1-3 glasses of wine or beer 2-3 x's per month on the average. It's almost two years post and still haven't had my beloved tequilla (100% agave only). Oh well, maybe at the end of August on my two year...maybe not... Most things are probably ok in moderation. Good luck.
Rob

Hi, Adele, During one appt. with the Oncologist after radiation, John was grumbling about his mouth and throat being to raw to drink a beer- the Doc just said "So pour it down your peg". Amy in the Ozarks

That had to be a joke. Since you would not get any taste of it the only purpose would be to get the alcohol buzz. Is this really what you want to be doing during recovery?

Nope- it was not a joke- Yep, it was "a buzz" for John- more mental than physical, I suspect- just part of his wanting - needing- to get back some of his "old normal" life. He could feel the cold can in his hand, and smell it before it went down the "hatch", say "cheers" to me if we were ending the day together and I was having a glass of wine. Quality of life has different meanings for each of us. Amy in the Ozarks

When at end of Rad I asked the doc about occasional wine, he said that would not be a problem. What I didn't know, and he most probably did, was that after the Rad, I cannot tolerate alcohol, or vinegar - might as well toss a lighted match in my mouth. So for some of us, I imagine that is not an issue. A low fat diet and lots of excerise is just going to have to protect my heart while I enjoy my new career as Designated Driver.

There is always an "up" side!

I was a very occasional beer drinker in the former life, maybe a 6 pack a month with Mexican food. Now, 10 months post Tx I still cannot tolerate the taste of any beer. It tastes as though someone put about a cup of sugar in one bottle or can of it. Also cannot touch a Margarita as all I get is a heavy lime and sugar taste. Oh well, at least my coffee has remained a friend throughout all.

Bill D.

I knew this would start a discussion. I am also of the mind that maybe 1-3 drinks per month would be okay. I think, maybe not sure, but obivously willing to take the chance!! I am also a walking nut and I love yoga and Tai Chi. My heart will certainly benefit from those acitivties more than that of bending my elbow. But, yes it certainly is part of socializing and being part of the group. Especially,on a beautful Canadian summers eve after watching my husband play baseball there is nothing nicer than sitting on the patio and enjoying a lovely cold dark beer with friends. I will let moderation prevail!!
Thanks all!