[Effect of body position on gastric emptying of solid food--a study using a sulfamethizole capsule food method]

We studied the effect of body position on gastric emptying of solid food using a sulfamethizole capsule food method developed by us. Gastric emptying was significantly delayed in a supine position than in a sitting position kept for 120 minutes after ingestion of test food. These findings were observed in all of the young, middle and old aged groups. A longer sitting position after ingestion was associated with faster gastric emptying. Gastric emptying was significantly delayed in the old aged group than in the young aged group in both sitting and supine positions. Our results indicate that a postprandial sitting position is desirable for gastric digestion and emptying of solid food, especially in the old aged subjects.