Gastric Emptying Tests Test

Gastric emptying tests measure how fast food leaves your stomach. If it takes too long, you may have gastroparesis. If it happens too fast, you may have dumping syndrome.

What this test measures

Gastric emptying tests measure the time it takes for food to empty out of your stomach. After a meal, it usually takes around four hours for 90 percent of the food to move out of your stomach and into your small intestine.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

If your results show it took a longer-than-normal time for your stomach to empty, it could mean you have gastroparesis.

Lower-than-normal results

If your results show it took a shorter-than-normal time for your stomach to empty, it could mean you have dumping syndrome.

Frequently asked questions

What are gastric emptying tests?

Gastric emptying tests measure the time it takes for food to empty out of your stomach.

How long does it normally take for food to leave the stomach?

It usually takes around four hours for 90 percent of the food to move out of your stomach and into your small intestine.

What does a longer-than-normal emptying time mean?

It could mean you have gastroparesis, a condition where your stomach empties too slowly.

What does a shorter-than-normal emptying time mean?

It could mean you have dumping syndrome, a condition where your stomach empties too quickly.

What is the most common cause of gastroparesis?

Diabetes is the most common underlying cause of gastroparesis.

Sources

MedlinePlus: Gastric Emptying Tests — NIH MedlinePlus

Last updated July 7, 2026. Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.