From the Guidelines
For a 15-year-old girl struggling with gastroparesis despite medical treatment, adopting a low-fiber, low-fat eating plan with small, frequent meals and considering ginger supplements may help alleviate symptoms. According to the most recent evidence [ 1 ], a low-fiber, low-fat diet provided in small frequent meals with a greater proportion of liquid calories may be useful in managing gastroparesis symptoms. Additionally, foods with small particle size may improve key symptoms [ 1 ].
Some key lifestyle changes and dietary modifications that may help include:
- Eating small, frequent meals (5-6 per day) to reduce stomach distension
- Focusing on low-fat, low-fiber foods such as well-cooked vegetables, lean proteins, and refined grains
- Avoiding fatty, fried foods, raw vegetables, and high-fiber items
- Staying well-hydrated with water and clear liquids between meals
- Limiting carbonated beverages which can cause bloating
- Engaging in gentle physical activity like walking after meals to stimulate digestion
Supplements that may be beneficial include:
- Ginger supplements (250-500mg capsules) or ginger tea to reduce nausea [ 1 ]
- Digestive enzymes to aid food breakdown
- Vitamin and mineral supplements if nutrition is compromised
It is essential to note that while these lifestyle changes and supplements may help manage symptoms, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The provider can help determine the best course of treatment and ensure that any supplements or dietary changes do not interact with other medications or worsen the condition. Always consult with her healthcare provider before starting any supplements or making significant dietary changes.
From the Research
Lifestyle Changes
- Eating small, frequent meals to reduce symptoms of nausea and vomiting 2
- Avoiding high-fiber and high-fat foods that can slow gastric emptying 2, 3
- Considering a low-bulk diet to alleviate symptoms 3
Foods
- Consuming a balanced diet with adequate protein, carbohydrate, and fat intake 4
- Ensuring sufficient intake of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, vitamin C, folate, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc 4
- Avoiding foods that trigger or worsen symptoms
Supplements
- Erythromycin, a motilin agonist, may be used to improve gastric emptying and alleviate symptoms 3, 5
- Domperidone, a prokinetic agent, may be used to treat symptoms of gastroparesis, particularly postprandial fullness, nausea, vomiting, and stomach fullness 6
- Vitamin and mineral supplements may be necessary to address deficiencies common in patients with idiopathic gastroparesis 4