How to Prevent Dumping Syndrome After Weight Loss Surgery
Dumping syndrome is a complication that may occur for some people after having gastric bypass surgery. Symptoms of dumping syndrome include a rapid heart rate and stomach discomfort, such as cramps or nausea. Vomiting and diarrhea may also occur. Not everyone experiences dumping syndrome after gastric bypass surgery.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Understand why dumping syndrome occurs. Gastric bypass surgery changes the amount of food you can eat at one time and changes how the food is absorbed by the body. Because of these changes, if you eat foods which the body has trouble digesting, dumping syndrome can occur.
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2
Follow your doctor's dietary advice. After gastric bypass surgery, you will need to make major changes to your diet. Listen to your surgeon's recommendations on how much to eat and what types of foods to avoid.
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3
Keep meals small. Eating too much at one meal is often a cause of dumping syndrome. Speak with your doctor to understand what is an appropriate portion size for your age, gender and height.
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4
Limit foods which contain simple sugars such as cookies, cakes and candy. These often cause dumping syndrome. Stay away from deep fried food, which may also cause problems for gastric bypass patients.
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5
Eat protein at every meal. This may reduce chances of developing dumping syndrome. Because your body can only handle small amounts of food at one time, it's important you get enough protein throughout the day. Aim for a half of your meal to contain protein. Eat foods such as a hardboiled egg or a small portion of broiled fish or chicken.
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Drink small amounts of water throughout the day. Many doctors may advise against drinking water with meals. Don't eat for about 30 minutes after drinking.
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Consider keeping a food diary. Certain foods may cause dumping syndrome in some people. Keeping track of what you ate when symptoms started helps you avoid those foods in the future.
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Tips & Warnings
While dumping syndrome is very uncomfortable, it will pass. If you do experience symptoms, sit down, rest and remain calm. Avoid eating or drinking anything while you have symptoms.
