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Gastroparesis and Nutrition

What is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a disorder in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents.  It is also called delayed stomach emptying.  During the process of digestion, the stomach must contract to empty itself of food and liquid.  Normally, it contracts about three times a minute.  This empties the stomach within 90-120 minutes after eating.  If contractions are sluggish or less frequent, stomach emptying is delayed.  This results in bothersome and sometimes serious symptoms, as well as malnutrition, because food is not being digested properly.

Gastroparesis may be caused by various conditions, such as diabetes, disorders of the nervous system, or certain drugs.  Often, however, no cause can be found.  Usually, the physician prescribes medication to stimulate the stomach to contract.  The purpose of the Gastroparesis diet is to reduce symptoms and maintain adequate fluids and nutrition.

Symptoms 

ü      Nausea

ü      Vomiting

ü      An early feeling of fullness when eating

ü      Weight loss

ü      Abdominal bloating

ü      Abdominal discomfort

These symptoms may be mild or severe, depending on the person.

Complications of Gastroparesis

If food lingers too long in the stomach, it can cause problems like bacterial overgrowth from the fermentation of food.  Also, the food can harden into solid masses called bezoars that may cause nausea, vomiting, and obstruction in the stomach.  Bezoars can be dangerous if they block the passage of food into the small intestine.

Meal and Food Changes

Changing your eating habits can help control Gastroparesis.  Your physician or dietitian will give you specific instructions, but you may be asked to eat six small meals a day instead of three large ones.  If less food enters the stomach each time you eat, it may not become overly full.  You may also be told to avoid fatty and high-fiber foods.  Fat naturally slows digestion—a problem you do not need if you have Gastroparesis—and fiber is difficult to digest.