Managing Symptoms: Dumping Syndrome

Written by Genevieve (Gen) Geenen, a Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences dietetic intern

Dumping syndrome is a condition characterized by the rapid emptying of food from the stomach to the small intestine. This condition most commonly occurs in people who have undergone surgery of the stomach or esophagus, including bariatric surgery. Fortunately, most cases of dumping syndrome can be successfully managed with dietary changes.

Signs & Symptoms

Individuals with dumping syndrome may experience a range of symptoms, such as nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Dumping syndrome is often classified as early or late, depending on when the symptoms develop. Symptoms of early dumping typically occur within 10 to 30 minutes after eating. Those who experience late dumping will develop signs or symptoms between 1 to 3 hours after a meal.

Early Dumping:

• Bloating
• Nausea/vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Sweating
• Flushing
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Desire to lie down
• Rapid heart rate
• Heart palpitations
• Diarrhea

Late Dumping:

• Sweating
• Flushing
• Hunger
• Weakness
• Tremors
• Confusion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid heart rate
• Heart palpitations
• Fainting

How is dumping syndrome treated?

The primary treatment for dumping syndrome involves dietary modifications. In most instances, following these dietary recommendations will lead to symptom improvement.

• Eat small, frequent meals or snacks. Aim for 5-6 small meals throughout the day. Make sure to eat slowly and chew foods thoroughly.
• Limit your intake of high-sugar foods and beverages. Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages, desserts, or other foods with high amounts of sugar. Consider trying products with minimal added sugar, such as those made with artificial sweeteners.
• Drink fluids between meals. Avoid consuming beverages for 30 to 60 minutes before and after eating.
• Consume an adequate amount of protein-rich foods. Include a source of protein at each meal, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese, tofu, or nut butters.
• Increase your fiber intake. Incorporate more high-fiber foods into your diet to help slow digestion and absorption of carbohydrates.
• Rest or lie down after meals. Try lying down for 15-30 minutes after eating.

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