04/23/2026
Dumping Syndrome is a common side effect after bariatric surgery. It can happen with the sleeve, bypass and duodenal switch.
Why does this happen?
Due to having a very small stomach pouch and modified digestive tract, you are more sensitive to high fat and high sugar foods, especially if the foods are processed/junk food.
Early dumping:
This is more likely to happen with quick to digest high fat/high sugar mushy foods and liquids: ice cream, buttery mashed potatoes, syrups, pudding, heavy cream soups, juices, smoothies, alcohol, sugary drinks, candy.
Late dumping:
This is more likely to happen with heavier high fat/sugar solid foods: cheeseburger and fries, fried chicken/fish, cake, cookies.
Tips to avoid dumping:
- Wait 30 min after meals to drink
- Focus on eating lean protein and fiber (beans, non-starchy veggies)
- Avoid eating carbohydrates alone, including fruit!
- Avoid fried foods
- Avoid creamy/buttery foods
- Avoid drinking sugary beverages
If dumping syndrome occurs, lie down and rest.
If symptoms do not resolve in 1 hour, try eating a high protein snack: string cheese, turkey slices, hard boiled eggs.