Postprandial water intake inhibits gastric antral motility with increase of cholecystokinin in humans.

OBJECTIVE

The effects of postprandial water intake on the gastrointestinal tract have not been systematically investigated in humans.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

In 8 healthy volunteers, the gastric antral pressure was measured with a strain gauge transducer, while the esophageal and lower esophageal sphincter pressures were measured with an infused catheter with a Dent sleeve. The esophageal pH at 5 cm above the lower sphincter was measured with a microglass electrode. A standard test meal (560 kcal) was eaten and 500 ml water was ingested 1 h later. The plasma cholecystokinin level was assessed at 4-min intervals. As a control, the same study was done on another day with sham water intake.

RESULTS

At 4 min after water intake, there was a significant decrease in gastric antral motility and a significant increase in the plasma cholecystokinin level. Water intake also significantly increased the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux.

CONCLUSIONS

The rapid increase in cholecystokinin after water intake may be initiated by a feedback mechanism related to inflow of fatty chyme into the duodenum that inhibits gastric antral activity.