Gastroparesis Diet Guide

A practical, evidence-based nutritional guide for patients with delayed gastric emptying.

Understanding Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying in the absence of a mechanical obstruction. It results from impaired neuromuscular function of the stomach and can involve vagal nerve dysfunction, loss of interstitial cells of Cajal (the stomach’s pacemaker cells), or secondary complications from conditions like diabetes mellitus, post-surgical changes, or connective tissue diseases.

Common symptoms include:

Early satiety (feeling full quickly)
Bloating or visible abdominal distension
Nausea and vomiting of undigested food
Postprandial fullness lasting hours
Weight loss and malnutrition in severe cases

The diagnosis is typically confirmed with gastric emptying scintigraphy, breath tests, or wireless motility capsule studies. While pharmacologic therapies like metoclopramide and erythromycin exist, diet modification remains the cornerstone of management.

Dietary Strategy Overview

The goals of nutritional management are to minimize symptoms, maintain adequate caloric intake, and reduce risk of bezoar formation. Key principles include:

Small, frequent meals: Aim for 5–6 meals per day to reduce gastric workload.
Low fat: Fat slows gastric emptying. Use fat-free broths, lean meats, and limit oils.
Low fiber: Insoluble fiber (peels, seeds, whole grains) should be avoided to prevent bezoars.
Soft or blended foods: Pureed textures promote more complete gastric clearance.
Liquids over solids: Liquids tend to pass through the stomach more easily.

Additional Advice

Sit upright during and after meals for at least 1 hour.
Consider walking for 10–15 minutes after meals to aid gastric motility.
Avoid carbonated beverages, alcohol, and high-fat dairy.

Sample Meal Plan with Recipes

Meal	Example	Recipe
Breakfast	Scrambled egg whites with toast and applesauce	- 3 egg whites, lightly scrambled in nonstick pan - 1 slice white toast, dry or with a small amount of jelly - ½ cup unsweetened applesauce Low fiber, low fat, and easy to chew
Mid-Morning Snack	Smooth banana-yogurt shake	- ½ banana - ½ cup low-fat lactose-free yogurt - ½ cup almond or oat milk - Blend until smooth Gentle on the stomach and nutritionally complete
Lunch	Blended chicken and rice soup	- ½ cup soft-cooked rice - ½ cup shredded chicken breast - 1 cup low-sodium broth - Blend into a smooth puree Hearty, protein-rich, and low-residue
Afternoon Snack	Vanilla Ensure® or Boost®	- Choose lactose-free or plant-based formulas - Chill for better tolerance Provides calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals
Dinner	Baked white fish with mashed potatoes	- 3 oz baked cod or tilapia, seasoned with lemon - ½ cup mashed potatoes (no skin, made with broth) - ½ cup cooked peeled carrots, mashed or pureed Well-cooked, moist, and easy to digest

What to Avoid

Certain foods are known to worsen symptoms or delay gastric emptying. These include:

Raw vegetables (especially fibrous ones like broccoli, cabbage, celery)
Whole grains, bran cereals, seeds, and legumes
Fried or fatty foods (e.g., bacon, creamy sauces)
Carbonated beverages and caffeine
Tough meats or fibrous skin (e.g., steak, poultry skin)

Medical Tip:

For patients with diabetes-related gastroparesis, blood glucose control is essential. Hyperglycemia itself can delay gastric emptying. Coordination with a dietitian and endocrinologist is often beneficial.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Persistent vomiting, especially of undigested food
Inability to maintain weight or signs of malnutrition
Severe bloating, pain, or signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness)
Need for tube feeding or consideration of jejunal nutrition

Encouragement

Gastroparesis can be managed with education, meal planning, and the support of your care team. Keep a symptom diary, stay hydrated, and explore tolerable options. Relief is possible.

This guide is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult your provider for individual care.