Dear Marjorie -
I know you're looking for relief from dumping
syndrome, but you may want to consider
other natural alternatives than aloe. As it
turns out, aloe juice is classified as a
stimulant laxative and may worsen what you
are trying to prevent in the first place--loose
stools that deplete the body of potential
healing nutrients. Additionally, oral intake of
aloe may increase low blood sugar effects
and contribute to feelings of fatigue and
weakness. You are certainly on the right path
by eating small, frequent meals--and I know
that can be very difficult to do when you are
busy working. Consider packing low fat
granola mixed with raw nuts or seeds or
spread organic nut butters on trans-fat-free
crackers. These are some great "briefcase
bites" that satisfy hunger, provide healthy
nutrients and are a fast and convenient way
to get in the calories and protein you need
each day. You may also want to limit the
amount of liquid you drink with meals (save
the drinking for between meals or snacks) so
you don't fill up so quickly and watch the
amount of sugary foods you consume.
Sugars, and sugar alcohols (sorbitol, xylitol)
found in sugar-free foods can also contribute
to diarrhea. You may want to avoid lactose
containing foods (milk, perhaps even
cheeses) to see if that helps the diarrhea to
subside. Digestive enzymes may be helpful,
as well as probiotic supplements.
Ultimately, you want to be able to eat and
keep healthy foods in the body long enough
for them to sustain you and rebuild healthy
cells. If you need additional support to attain
this goal, please feel free to contact me. With
a little trial and error, I believe you can regain
bowel health and subsequently your quality of
life!
Best wishes,
Kim Dalzell, PhD, RD, LD
Director, Holistic Nutrition Service
Cancer Resource Center