Fact 12: It’s Tied to Rapid Gastric Emptying
The human stomach functions as a vital processing center, breaking down food and preparing it for nutrient extraction in the intestines. Typically, the stomach methodically releases partially digested food (chyme) into the small intestine at a regulated pace. But for those with dumping syndrome, this process gets disrupted.
Rapid gastric emptying essentially refers to the stomach emptying its contents into the small intestine too quickly. It’s like pouring a large volume of water down a funnel all at once, instead of a gradual flow. This sudden deluge can overwhelm the small intestine, leading to an array of symptoms. Both the volume and the composition of the dumped contents play a role in triggering these symptoms.
So, what causes the stomach to offload its contents prematurely? One primary reason is the surgical alteration of the stomach, especially after procedures like gastric bypass surgery. When the stomach’s capacity is reduced or its pathway changed, it might expedite the food passage to the small intestine. The type of food consumed also influences this process. Sugary, carbohydrate-rich foods can exacerbate rapid emptying, especially when consumed in large quantities or on an empty stomach.
When the stomach empties too quickly, it sets off a chain reaction in the digestive system. The small intestine responds to the sudden influx by drawing water from the bloodstream, causing symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. Furthermore, the rapid absorption of glucose can cause a spike in insulin production, leading to symptoms associated with low blood sugar.(12)
