Struggling with diabetes, hypertension, gastroparesis
Q: Dear Donovan,
I am 5 feet 11 inches tall and I have both diabetes and hypertension. I am 57 years old and weigh 150 pounds. Since recently I’ve been told I have gastroparesis. Whenever I eat I feel queasy and often want to vomit. My appetite is also poor. Can you advise me of foods to eat that can help to ease the complications of the condition?
A: Gastroparesis is a chronic condition in which the stomach cannot empty itself of food in the normal time. The stomach normally empties its content into the small intestine in 90 to 120 minutes. However, for people with gastroparesis, the time is usually significantly longer.
Gastroparesis is usually caused by damage to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve regulates a number of body functions including the cardiac, gastrointestinal and sensory elements. This nerve also controls muscle movement and the chemical levels in the digestive system. Damage to the vagus nerve, among other things, prevents the muscles in the stomach and intestines from functioning properly. Food is therefore prevented from moving properly through the digestive system.
Many of the reasons for gastroparesis might be unknown. However, causes may include uncontrolled diabetes and gastric surgery with injury to the vagus nerve. In addition, some medications such as antidepressants can also cause gastroparesis. In your situation it is most likely that your gastroparesis was caused by your diabetes, in particular the uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Diabetes can damage the vagus nerve.
It should be noted that gastroparesis cannot be cured, but changing the diet along with medication can offer some relief. It is very important that your nutrition programme is tailored to your specific need. Your diet will also have to take into consideration that you are both diabetic and hypertensive. Along with your doctor, I think you should get a nutritionist to help you with your diet plan.
One of the best ways to reduce the symptoms of gastroparesis is to modify your eating habits. For example, it is better to have six small meals per day instead of three large meals. By doing this there will be less food in the stomach and this makes it easier for food to leave. It is also important to sit up at meals and walk between meals.
A low-fat, low-carbohydrate mainly liquid and soft food diet could be helpful in your situation. However, the sugar and salt level of the diet will have to be monitored. It is possible that a liquid diet can leave the stomach even by the force of gravity. In addition, a liquid diet can prevent dehydration and balance your salt, vitamin and mineral levels. The diet should be low in fat because fat can delay the stomach emptying. It is also good to have fruits, small amounts of fruit juice, soups, vegetable juices, yoghurt, and meal replacement shakes.
Damage to the vagus nerve can also cause an increase in the amount of acid produced in the stomach. This can lead to vomiting, nausea and damage to the stomach walls. It is therefore important to eat foods which balance the pH of the stomach — for example, green juice, papaya and yoghurt. Overall, make sure that you are monitored by your doctor and a nutritionist to ensure that your blood sugar and blood pressure levels are in normal range.
We will answer your weight-related questions
Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, Suite 16, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Send your questions to clarkep@ jamaicaobserver.com.
