Diabetic Treatments
Although gastroparesis is a chronic condition, there are many measures that can be taken to improve gastric emptying, regain glycemic control and thus enjoy a higher quality of life. In treating diabetic gastroparesis (DGP), the most important goal is to stabilize blood sugar levels, and improve gastric motility. This is achieved mostly through diet and lifestyle changes (as monitored by a physician and/or licensed dietician), changes in the patient’s insulin routine, oral medication, and alternative therapies including botox injections and gastric pacing. In severe cases, in which the patient is unable to take in any nutrition, enteral or parenteral nutrition can be used to prove the patient with much needed nutrients.
Dietary and Lifestyle recommendations for patients with DGP:
More frequent, Smaller Meals. A weak stomach will often not be able to tolerate large quantities of food. Not only will smaller meals pass more quickly through the stomach, they will also help to maintain constant levels of blood glucose
Decrease Fiber Intake: Though long touted for its health benefits, large amounts of fiber can actually prove harmful to patients with motility impairments. Fibrous foods, such as grains, and certain fruits and vegetables, take longer to be digested and can also form bezoars. A table of foods known to cause problems among those with gastroparesis can be found at http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/digestive-health/nutrition/dm-gastroparesis.pdf
Liquids. When solid foods cannot be tolerated, a full or partial liquid diet is useful in providing nourishment to the patient. It may be beneficial for the patient to begin the day with solid food, and gradually progress to softer or more liquid nutrition as the day progresses. Patients should take care to take in more nutrient dense calories –if well tolerated- before sources of empty calories such as soft drinks. For ideas and recipes, see http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/digestive-health/nutrition/dm-gastroparesis.pdf
Keep carbohydrates Consistent. The American Diabetes Association has noted a strong relationship between carbohydrate consumption and blood sugar levels. Keeping carbohydrates roughly the same in all meals will aid in glucose control
More Lifestyle Changes
Medical Treatments
Diabetic Gastroparesis
Complications
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