Gastroparesis Diet Plan (Symptoms and health tips )

Last Updated on December 10, 2024 | RD, Payal Banka (Registered Dietitian) Leave a Comment

Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach’s ability to empty its contents is delayed. This causes nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. It can result from various factors, including diabetes, neurological conditions, or post-surgical complications. Managing gastroparesis involves dietary changes. A Gastroparesis diet plan focuses on easy-to-digest foods and meals that help control symptoms. This article outlines an Indian diet plan for gastroparesis, offering specific food recommendations and tips to help manage the condition effectively.

What is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a disorder that slows down or stops the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine. This condition can lead to poor digestion, malnutrition, and discomfort.

Symptoms of Gastroparesis

The symptoms of gastroparesis include:

These symptoms can vary in severity and may worsen after eating, particularly after consuming large, fatty, or fibrous meals.

Causes of Gastroparesis

The main causes of gastroparesis include:

1. Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the nerves controlling the stomach muscles.
2. Neurological disorders: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke can affect stomach motility.
3. Surgery: Abdominal surgeries, especially those involving the stomach or intestines, can damage the vagus nerve.
4. Infections: Viral infections can sometimes affect the stomach’s ability to empty.
5. Medications: Certain drugs, like narcotics and antidepressants, can slow gastric emptying.
6. Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid function can affect digestion.
7. Idiopathic: In many cases, the cause remains unknown.

These factors can disrupt the normal functioning of the stomach muscles, leading to delayed gastric emptying.

Gastroparesis Diet Plan

Principles of an Indian Diet Plan for Gastroparesis

• Low-fiber foods like refined grains like white rice, white bread, and plain pasta. help in gastroparesis. High-fiber foods can be difficult to digest in gastroparesi. This may lead to bloating and discomfort. On the other hand, low-fiber foods are easier on the stomach.

• Small, Frequent Meals throughout the day can help reduce the load on your stomach and allow for better digestion. Avoid large meals, as they can overwhelm your digestive system.

• Easily Digestible Foods are soft, cooked foods. Avoid fried, greasy, or highly spiced foods, which can irritate the stomach.

• Low-fat foods like lean proteins and low-fat dairy options are best. Fatty foods can delay gastric emptying, so it’s important to minimize the intake of fried foods, high-fat dairy, and oils.

• Hydration is crucial, especially since gastroparesis can lead to nausea and vomiting. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and opt for clear broths or fruit-infused water.

Indian Diet Plan for Gastroparesis

Here is a sample Indian diet plan for gastroparesis. It is designed to be easy on the stomach while providing the essential nutrients.

Breakfast: Poha with carrots and peas OR  Upma OR Smoothie OR Salted ragi porridge OR Soft cooked dhokla 

Mid-Morning Snack: Chaas (Buttermilk)

Lunch: Khichdi with a tsp of ghee and low-fat curd OR Mung dal + turai ki sabji + phulka

Evening: 1 fruit OR boiled sweet potato

Dinner:  Vegetable Soup( vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, and spinach). Avoid cruciferous vegetables at night that can cause gas and bloating. + Soft Chapati with Ghee + palak paneer sabji

Before Bed:  A glass of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric or cardamom.

Foods to Avoid in Gastroparesis

Certain foods can worsen gastroparesis symptoms and should be avoided or limited:

• High-Fiber Foods: Raw vegetables, fruits with skin, whole grains, and nuts can be hard to digest.
• Fried or Fatty Foods: Foods like fried snacks, heavy curries with ghee or butter, and high-fat dairy should be limited.
• Spicy Foods: Spices like red chili, black pepper, and mustard can irritate the stomach lining.
• Carbonated Beverages: Soft drinks, carbonated water, and sodas can cause bloating and discomfort.
• Caffeinated Drinks: Tea, coffee, and energy drinks can stimulate the stomach and worsen symptoms.

Tips for Gastroparesis Management

In addition to following an Indian diet plan for gastroparesis, consider these lifestyle tips for better symptom management:

1. Eat slowly: Take your time while eating to help the body properly digest the food.
2. Chew thoroughly: Properly chewing food makes it easier for your stomach to break it down.
3. Exercise regularly: Gentle activities like walking can help promote digestion.
4. Sleep with your upper body elevated: This can prevent reflux and improve digestion at night. A proper 8 hours long and deep sleep will help.

Conclusion

An Indian diet plan for gastroparesis focuses on easily digestible, low-fat, and low-fiber foods that promote better digestion and minimize discomfort. By eating small, frequent meals and avoiding trigger foods like high-fat, spicy, or fiber-rich items, you can manage the symptoms of gastroparesis more effectively. Always consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian before making significant dietary changes to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs while managing the condition. With the right approach to diet and lifestyle, you can lead a more comfortable and healthy life despite gastroparesis. If you are looking for a personalized diet plan to resolve gastroparesis or any medical issue, you can email us at care@dietburrp.com