Improving the Pain of Gastroparesis
By Brandi Goodman
Gastroparesis -- a disease that affects the stomach -- can bring about a lot of pain. Constant stomachaches, nausea, heartburn, and worse, plague those with the condition. There are ways, however, to improve the pain of gastroparesis and figure out how to keep some of the symptoms at bay.
Eat Smaller Meals
Trying to eat three large meals per day can lead to much of the discomfort you're used to feeling with this condition. It's already difficult for food to move through the digestive process due to your disease. Stop eating large portions and opt for several smaller meals throughout the day instead. It won't be as hard on your stomach and will still give you the calories you need.
Try a Liquid Diet
Whole foods can take much longer to digest and be harsh on your stomach. Trying out a liquid diet may be best if you're suffering. Liquid passes through easier and won't hold things up within. Foods that aren't exactly considered liquid, but are still soft and easy to consume, should also be included. Smoothies, yogurt, applesauce, protein shakes, soup, mashed potatoes, and the like should be in your meal plan.
Avoid Fat and Fiber
Foods high in fat and fiber are difficult for those with gastroparesis to digest. You need to avoid these foods so your body has an easier time. A full-fat Vitamin D milk, for example, should not be on your beverage list. Low-fat dairy products are more reasonable.
Follow Your Doctor's Orders
You should of course be working with a doctor to get full guidance on how best to manage your symptoms. A specialist will have further advice on which foods are easier on your stomach and won't cause symptoms compared to the options that will undoubtedly make your stomach upset. Staying on top of doctor's orders and always following through with what they're telling you is key. You don't want to ignore what the doctor recommends and end up in severe pain. A doctor can only help you if you want to continue to help yourself.
You'll also want to follow up for additional options. If a diet change is not sufficing, alternative options may be necessary. Medication and surgery are two choices you and your doctor should discuss down the line.
Gastroparesis Awareness Month in August encourages people to learn better ways to manage their condition and utilize preventative strategies that can help avoid some associated symptoms. You can improve some of the pain of gastroparesis by keeping these things in mind.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Evans, Ga.