Question:
Has anyone experienced dumping with NutraSweet, Splenda or other substitutes?

I'm trying to figure out if what I've been experiencing for the last couple of months is actually dumping syndrome. I struggle with terrible nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain sometimes accompanied by headaches and chills. I have not any sweets since my surgery in August 2002, but I have used some products that contain Nutra Sweet. I'm trying to determine if that is the root of my problems because I've been treated for bacterial overgrowth and have also had xrays, and upper GI and bowel scans...all showing everything to be normal. I'm very puzzled and concerned because this condition is completely debilitating. I would appreciate any wisdom out there! Thank you! Karen    — Karen L. (posted on April 8, 2003)

April 8, 2003
Hi, I can't have any type of sugar other than susitutes or I get sick. I use the NutraSweet liquid drops in everything now and have no problems, but the sugar free candies and cookies, sometimes I get sick off that and I get hot, shaky and sick to my stomach, so I know not to eat that product again. Ask your nutritionist for ideas. Good luck!
   — Sandy M.

April 8, 2003
hi karen, i had an "allergry" to crystal light and the reaction sounded like what you wrote... prior to the surgery i drank lots of diet pepsi...soda is a no-no post op and it was suggested that i use crystal light (iced tea lemon aide) to increase my fluids...anyway i had mean headaches, nausea, vomitting and a sick all over feeling. i stopped it and the awful feeling went away....added it back and wooobooy...needless to say i trashed the crystal light...good luck!
   — nan K.

April 8, 2003
I also had surgery in August of 2002 and I went through the same thing. I can eat sugar, in very small quantities - Splenda makes me dump HARD! Same symptoms as you, so bad that the only way to get through it is to sleep it off.
   — Shannon H.

April 8, 2003
I too, can't tolerate many artificial sweetners. These symptoms can also be caused by dairy products. I found out that I was lactose intolerant about 2 months postop. Once I cut out all dairy and no sugar substitutes, the problem went a way. I have since be able to add small amounts of Splenda back in, but it took me being more than 18 months postop for that to work. Honey also makes me dump like crazy...hope this helps.
   — Teri D.