A person suffering from dumping syndrome would struggle to tolerate which type of carbohydrate?

Dumping syndrome occurs when food, especially sugar, moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. This condition is often seen in individuals who have undergone gastric surgery or have certain gastrointestinal disorders.

Disaccharides, which include sugars like sucrose (table sugar) and lactose (milk sugar), can contribute to rapid gastric emptying and can exacerbate symptoms of dumping syndrome. When disaccharides are absorbed too quickly in the small intestine, they can lead to excess water being drawn into the gut, resulting in diarrhea, cramping, and other significant discomfort.

In contrast, monosaccharides are simpler sugars that are typically absorbed more slowly than disaccharides. Oligosaccharides, which are composed of a few sugar units, and polysaccharides, which are long chains of sugars, are generally more complex and may not cause the rapid shifts in fluid and discomfort associated with dumping syndrome. Therefore, individuals managing this condition often find they tolerate monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides better than disaccharides. This understanding helps guide dietary recommendations for those affected by dumping syndrome.