Gastroparesis is the delayed emptying of the contents of the stomach. Foods and beverages ingested pass through the esophagus into the stomach and onward into the small intestine. A delayed emptying of foods can cause masses to form inside the stomach that block the passage, triggering uncomfortable abdomen and digestive problems. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment, changes in lifestyle, and changes in daily nutrition can help improve the quality of life living with gastroparesis.

Main symptoms of gastroparesis
Gastroparesis impacts digestion leading to the following symptoms and discomforts.

Vomiting and nausea
A persistent sensation of nausea followed by bouts of vomiting is a clear sign of gastric trouble. One of the glaring signs of gastroparesis is vomiting foods that remain undigested even after a couple of hours of eating.

Abdominal discomforts
Pain and bloating are common symptoms that develop with varying levels of intensity. A person might experience sharp bouts of intermittent pain or can suffer from persistent pain. Bloating is a visible sign when the area around the stomach swells and becomes rigid.

Acid reflux
Acid reflux happens when the stomach throws back the fluids in the digestive cavity up the esophagus. The pH level of these fluids is extremely high as it needs to break down foods and beverages digested. Persistent acid reflux indicates a developing gastroparesis problem.

Loss of appetite and changes in BMI
A sudden lack of interest in eating is also indicative of digestive problems. Skipping foods that are essential for maintaining daily nutrient, mineral, and vitamin balance can result in malnutrition and rapid changes in the BMI.

Feeling full without reason
Feeling full after having just a few bites of food is also another common symptom of gastric problems. Note that these abrupt changes in daily nutrition can affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of associated health complications.

Changes in daily nutrition to manage gastroparesis
Nutrition is one of the key factors that impact the progression of digestive disorders. So, including and eliminating certain foods or beverages can help resolve discomfort that would otherwise persist.

Foods to eat

Low-fat dairy
Dairy products like milk, yogurt, sour cream, and even different types of cheese, including cottage cheese and cream cheese, are acceptable choices.

Nutrient-rich fruits
Ripe bananas, seedless melons, oranges, grapefruits, mandarins, and pears are excellent fruits to include in daily nutrition to better manage gastroparesis. Several of these fruits are rich in nutrients that promote easy digestion and contain vitamin C, which boosts immunity. These fruits are also loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that fight oxidative stress resulting in cell damage. However, one must ensure the skin is peeled off, and these fruits are semi-cooked to avoid being consumed raw.

Vegetables
Nutritionists also suggest incorporating more cooked vegetables to ease up digestion and prevent gastric problems. As long as the skin is peeled and the veggies are either boiled, baked, properly sauteed, or even mashed, it will be easy for the body to absorb these nutrients directly. Popular choices include cooked beets, carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, yams, and summer squash, all prepared without the skin.

Among leafy greens, one can also include spinach, asparagus, beans, and cauliflowers that can be mashed or purred. Leeks, onions, and tomatoes can be added to recipes for flavoring. Avocado is another great omega 3-rich veggie to include that can be easily digested. In fact, a lot of these vegetables can be used to make soup stocks for those who suffer from serious gastrointestinal problems.

Lean proteins
Eggs, lean cuts of fish, veal, lamb, chicken, and turkey are all acceptable meats. These cuts are rich in proteins, low in fats, and contain very few additives or preservatives otherwise found in red meats. Lean cuts of meat are easier to chew and swallow, making them easier for the body to digest. Nutritionists also suggest including creamy peanut butters to boost protein and healthy fats intake.

Gastroparesis foods to avoid
Nutritionists also recommend avoiding 2% fatty milk, whole milk, or heavy cream, as it can cause digestive problems. Any raw fruits or vegetables should be eliminated from daily consumption as raw foods are difficult to process with conditions like gastroparesis. All deli meats, canned fish, organ meats, and red meats should also be avoided to promote easier digestion. Whole grains rich in fiber slow down digestion. So, it’s best to avoid wheat, barley, oatmeal, and even whole grain crackers or cereals. While it is okay to consume coffee, tea, and non-carbonated beverages in moderation, avoid packaged flavored drinks and fruit juices that contain artificial sugars and preservatives.

How to treat gastroparesis?
Changes in nutrition aside, gastroenterologists also suggest a combination of prescriptions, lifestyle changes, and home remedies for gastroparesis.

• Prescriptions
  Certain prescription treatment options are suggested for inducing contraction and muscle movements that promote movement from the stomach into the small intestine.
• Endoscopic therapy
  If prescriptions fail to induce movements, doctors will also suggest endoscopic therapy to drain the stomach or bypass nutrients directly into the small intestine.
• Experimental treatments under consideration
  Gastric pacing is one of the many experimental treatments that have not yet become mainstream and are done only in select areas. 

Preventive measures and home remedies like avoiding acidic trigger foods and beverages, practicing alternative remedies, and having herbal drinks can all improve one’s outlook in the long term.