What is Dumping Syndrome?

Some people who have weight-loss surgery may experience something called dumping syndrome.

Dumping syndrome describes a group of symptoms that occur when undigested food moves too quickly into the small bowel (small intestine). This can occur after weight-loss surgery, more specifically, gastric bypass surgery, or any surgery in which part of the stomach is removed. Dumping syndrome may also occur after consuming a meal high in sugar.

Dumping Syndrome Symptoms

Dumping syndrome may include symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, heart palpitations and dizziness.

The symptoms may occur immediately after eating or a few hours after eating.

How to Avoid Dumping Syndrome

If you believe you are experiencing dumping syndrome you should speak with your health care team to discuss treatment options.

The following treatments and lifestyle changes may help you manage your symptoms:

• Eat smaller meals.
• Avoid drinking fluids with meals.
• Lie down after eating.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Chew food thoroughly.
• Avoid high-sugar foods: aim for less than 15g sugar per serving.

Get more information about weight-loss surgery at Penn

Learn if bariatric surgery is right for you by attending a free weight-loss information session about the Penn Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program.

Learn more about weight-loss surgery at Penn at this free session, and meet physicians and team members from the Penn Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program.

Register for this free weight-loss information session.