Dumping syndrome is a group of symptoms occuring after meals in patients that have undergone a Gastric Surgery (like a Gastric Bypass or a Gastric Sleeve ). Dumping Syndrome, also known as Rapid Gastric Emptying, occurs when food (specially sugar) moves too fast from the stomach to the intestines. There are 2 types of dumping syndrome: early and late.

Early Dumping Syndrome

May happen about 30 to 60 minutes after you eat. Symptoms may include:

• Stomach cramps/pain.
• Nausea/vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Sweating,
• Flushing.
• Bloating.
• Noisy stomach sounds.

Late Dumping Syndrome

Late dumping syndrome may happen about 1 to 3 hours after eating. Symptoms may include:

• Shakiness.
• Hunger.
• Confusion and Lack of focus.
• Sweating.
• Fainting.
• Tiredness.
• Desire to lie down.
• Paleness.

What to do if you are suffering from Dumping Syndrome ?

If you are suffering from Dumping Syndrome some measures you can take are:

• Avoid drinking liquids for at least 30 to 45 minutes after a meal.
• Divide your daily calories into five or six small meals.
• Lie down for 30 minutes after a meal.
• Go for complex carbohydrates such as whole-wheat bread or vegetables.
• Avoid foods high in simple carbohydrates, such as sweet rolls and ice cream.
• Add more protein and fat to your meals,
• Stop eating dairy foods, if they cause problems.

Another option is to slow gastric emptying by making your food thicker. In some cases adding 15 grams of guar gum or pectin to each meal may help, but many patients have difficulties tolerating these additions to their food.

If dietary changes don’t help, you may need some slow-release prescription medicines. In some extraordinary and severe cases tube feeding or corrective revision surgery can be the option.

If you are suffering from Dumping Syndrome after a Weight Loss Surgery, schedule a free consultation with one of our specialists or join My New Body Obesity Center Facebook Suppport Group to get in touch with us.

Medical Reviewers:

• Monica Valencia, MD