Diet for Diabetic Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a stomach condition in which the stomach digests and moves food at a decreased rate. This can be caused by diabetes; unregulated levels of blood sugar can cause nerve damage, including the nerves that stimulate stomach contractions and behaviors. While there is no cure for diabetic gastroparesis, it can be controlled with proper diet.

Foods to Avoid

• Fiber is difficult to digest, so it should be avoided. High-fiber foods include figs, green beans, berries, and broccoli. In general, you should avoid raw vegetables and fresh fruits, as these slow down digestion. Fatty foods also impede digestion and should be avoided.

Foods to Seek Out

• The following foods and drinks are encouraged: skim milk, white rice, pasta, vegetable and fruit juices, fat-free soups, poultry and fish. Vegetables are fine if they are skinned and cooked; safe options include beets, carrots, mushrooms, spinach and yams. Coffee and tea are acceptable drink choices.

Supplements

• Since diabetic gastroparesis limits your ability to eat fresh fruit and vegetables, your diet may lack certain essential vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and iron. Talk your doctor about nutritional supplements that can provide you with these nutrients.

Eating Practices

• Make sure to eat slowly and fully chew your food. Avoid large meals, instead eating several small meals throughout the day. After a meal, try to sit up for an hour as opposed to laying down or exercising. These steps will aid digestion.

Diabetes Control

• In addition to creating a diet that encourages increased flow of food through the digestive tract, you must also adhere to a safe diabetic diet. This means always maintaining a healthy blood sugar/insulin ratio and monitoring your glucose levels regularly.