Nutrition Strategies for Gastroparesis

What is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder characterized by improper functioning of the muscles of the digestive tract that slows or stops movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. 

Common symptoms include:

• Nausea

• Feeling of fullness eating only a small amount of food
• Vomiting undigested food, sometimes several hours after a meal
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
• Abdominal discomfort
• Bloating
• Lack of appetite
• Weight loss

Most of what we recommend when it comes to gastroparesis nutrition therapy is based on what we know about human physiology and how the stomach normally works. A “one-size fits all” dietary approach is not recommended because the severity of gastroparesis varies from person to person. A registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can guide you to find a nutrition regimen that works best for you and meets your nutritional needs.  

Gastroparesis symptoms can vary from week-to-week or even day-to-day. For example, during a “Gastroparesis flare” you may experience a period where all you can tolerate is liquids while previously solid foods were tolerated.  The treatment of Gastroparesis often includes medications, dietary strategies, and lifestyle changes.  

Basic Gastroparesis nutrition strategies include: (note these may need to be individualized)

• Pay attention to portion sizes: Eat small frequent meals (4-6 meals per day spaced about 3 hours apart). 1-1.5 cups of food per meal is typically recommended.
• Experiment with solid vs liquid meals.  If solids are not tolerated, consider oral nutrition supplements or pureeing foods in a blender.  
• Reduce dietary fat- fat slows stomach emptying
• Reduce dietary fiber or modify dietary fiber- fiber slows stomach emptying
• Fill up on nutritious foods first starting with the protein portion
• Chew foods well
• Stay hydrated
• Sit up while eating and avoid laying down for 2-3 hours after eating
• Exercise may help improve stomach emptying.  Walking after meals is recommended.

Foods to Avoid that may cause bezoar formation

What is a bezoar?  A bezoar is a hardened mass of undigested fiber that can collect in the stomach causing severe symptoms.  Foods that cannot be fully chewed or that are indigestible by your stomach may lead to bezoar formation.

Kitchen Tips for Success

• Kitchen tools: blender, juicer, and crockpot to make gastroparesis friendly meals/shakes
• Fruit and vegetable peeler
• Fine mesh strainer
• Measuring cups to help with portion sizes
• Nutrient rich shakes/supplement drinks- seek advice from RDN for individualized needs
• Ginger tea or chews for nausea

What Resources are Available for Meal Planning/Appropriate Food Products?

Registered Dietitian picks for go-to resources include: 

• Crystal Saltrelli, CHC: Recipes and tips for managing gastroparesis
• Gastroparesis friendly rainbow-resource on how to include fruits/veggies
• Quick and easy gastroparesis mini meals 
• Book for gastroparesis guidelines and recipes available on Amazon
• UM GI Dietitian Pinterest Board

The Registered Dietitian-Nutritionists at Allied Digestive Health are trained and qualified to provide guidance and instruction on appropriate nutrition therapy for gastroparesis. You can contact our team at nutrition@allieddigestivehealth.com to schedule an appointment.