Dumping syndrome is a group of symptoms that occurs when food moves from the stomach into the small intestine too fast. it usually occurs after consuming high sugar food or fluids. Early dumping syndrome causes symptoms 10-30 minutes after eating, while late dumping syndrome causes symptoms one to four hours after eating.
Symptoms of EARLY dumping syndrome: feeling full quickly, nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramps, diarrhoea, dizziness, tiredness and rapid heart rate.
Symptoms of LATE dumping syndrome: sweating,shakiness,difficulty concentrating and hunger.
Advice for Dumping Syndrome
The Following dietary advice can help to manage both early and late dumping syndrome:
- Have smaller meals. Small meals will make you feel full and are easier to digest. Eat 5 or 6 small meals each day instead of 3 large ones. Be sure to eat slowly and chew your food well.
- Do not drink fluids with meals. Fluids increase the speed at which your food passes through your stomach and into your intestine. Avoid drinking for about 30 minutes before and after eating.
- Avoid High Sugar foods. This includes foods such as soft drinks, flavoured milk, lollies, sweetened juices, sports drinks, cookies and cakes. When consuming carbohydrates, go for complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables and multigrain options.
- Include Protein with each meal and snack. This will help to slow the rate of the stomach emptying. protein examples include eggs, meat, chicken, fish, legumes, nuts, tofu and peanut butter.
- Include high fibre foods. Soluble fibre, found in legumes, oats, fruitand vegetables is most helpful. a fibre supplement such as benefibre/Metamucil, will also help. Begin with adding 1 teaspoon in a food/drink at breakfast, lunch and dinner, increasing to 2-3 teaspoons three times daily. Always ensure adequate fluid intake ( at least 1.5L per day).
- Avoid foods which you know cause symptoms for you. Some people find certain foods, for example milk products or caffeine trigger symptoms.
A total score >7 is suggestive of dumping syndrome, whereas a score <4 suggests other diagnoses.
Please Note
This test is an indicator and you should consult your bariatric surgeon for clarification and advice.
Mercy Bariatrics Perth
Need help? Call us on 9272 0420 and arrange a time to talk to a doctor or one of our dietitians. Meet our team.
