Dumping Syndrome Management After Gastric Cancer Surgery

After gastric cancer surgery, many patients may experience a condition known as dumping syndrome. This typically occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. To help manage this condition, it is highly recommended that patients follow a diet consisting of smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Experts suggest eating five to six small meals instead of three large ones to reduce symptoms.

One of the most important lifestyle adjustments is to avoid lying down immediately after eating. Instead, taking a short walk or engaging in light physical activity for 10–15 minutes after meals can help regulate digestion and minimize discomfort. These simple changes can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing dumping syndrome symptoms.

In some cases, particularly after a distal gastrectomy and lymph node dissection, the vagus nerve—which plays a key role in controlling stomach function—may be affected during surgery. This nerve damage can disrupt normal digestive processes and contribute to post-meal discomfort.

When food is consumed too quickly, patients may experience rapid heartbeat, sweating, and palpitations—classic signs of early dumping syndrome. This reaction is often linked to a sudden spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a sharp drop. As a result, maintaining a steady and slow intake of food is crucial in managing blood glucose fluctuations.

To prevent these episodes, patients are advised to chew food thoroughly, eat at a slower pace, and avoid consuming large amounts of simple sugars. Staying hydrated is also important, though it's best to drink fluids between meals rather than during them. By making these dietary and behavioral adjustments, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life after gastric cancer surgery.