Grandmother helping her granddaughter make dough by adding olive oil
Life with gastroparesis changes everything. Whether you’re standing in the kitchen making grandma’s famous lasagna or indulging in it — most agree that food brings people together.
Without the essence of food and its ability to forge connections — life can feel empty.
We rely on food to fill our heart, mind and stomach—all at the same time. However, when food sits in the stomach too long—known as delayed gastric emptying—food loses its flare. Each bite can feel like a battle for people with gastroparesis.
What is Gastroparesis?
People living with gastroparesis tend to approach food with a heightened sense of vigilance. That’s because each bite of food could send their stomach down a dark, bumpy road riddled with belly pain, nausea and vomiting.
Other people describe symptoms like feeling bloated or stuffed after just a few bites.
Gone are the days of anticipating the joyful pleasure of eating. For many people with the condition, learning what to eat and when requires a certain discipline and knowledge that can feel exhausting at times, says Emily Marshall, PA-C, with Gastroenterology of the Rockies.
“The dietary modifications for gastroparesis can be really challenging for patients. Because they need to eat smaller snacks and avoid larger meals. These changes can also impact social engagements around mealtimes and enjoyment of those occasions.”
GASTROPARESIS FACTS & FIGURES
By gender – More commonly diagnosed in women, at 68.5 percent, compared to 31.4 percent, in men
By age – Highest prevalence in age group between 58 to 64 years of age
Most common cause – Diabetic gastroparesis, at 57.7 percent, compared to other diseases
You can read more about the textbook definition of gastroparesis – what causes it and treatments – in our digestive conditions library. Whether you have diabetic gastroparesis or the type with no known origin or cause, the disease presents similar challenges. This blog will approach the topic from a general perspective.
How Does Gastroparesis Affect Mental Health?
Unless you live with gastroparesis yourself, it’s somewhat misunderstood in terms of how it affects quality-of-life, well-being and social, emotional factors. Mental health and self-care are factors to consider when managing gastroparesis. Having the right support can help you cope with the disease and know that you are not all alone.
Feelings of depression, anxiety and stress are commonly reported in people with the condition, reported in the Journal Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 2024. Talking to a support group or therapist can help you get through the difficult times.
People with gastroparesis talk about how it leaves them bedridden for days with crushing gut pain and mental anguish. For some people, the struggle is not knowing if worsening symptoms warrant a trip to see the doctor. Or wondering, will it run its course?
What are the Risks of Gastroparesis?
Malnutrition is a top concern for people diagnosed with gastroparesis. This abdominal condition keeps people feeling overly full, despite having hardly eaten.
When people are malnourished, the body becomes deficient in key nutrients. Malnutrition correlates with mortality, sepsis, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and longer hospital stays. Source: National Library of Medicine, 2023
Staying hydrated also presents challenges during a gastroparesis flare up. Consuming all that fluid takes up space in the belly. This translates into feeling like there’s not enough room to drink more fluids. And this can lead to dehydration.
Prevent Dehydration – Watch for Warning Signs
Sipping small amounts of liquid throughout the day is a good way to help prevent dehydration, says Marshall. Keeping a small glass of water by your bedside is another good reminder.
How Does Gastroparesis Affect Thirst Signals?
Gastroparesis can affect thirst signals if dehydration sets in. Constant nausea and vomiting may cause you to lose more fluids than you’re taking in. However, some people may not experience the feeling of thirst—even though the body needs fluids.
Research suggests that older adults may experience dehydration from diminished thirst sensation. People with diabetes may experience increased thirst sensation, yet may still be at risk of dehydration. Source: National Library of Medicine, March 2025.
What are the Risks of Dehydration?
When you’re at- risk of dehydration, it generally interferes with electrolytes and fluid levels. Sodium, potassium and chloride are some minerals that make up your electrolytes—and may become depleted. (Merck Manuals, n.d.)
Frequent bouts of vomiting can interfere with your potassium and chloride levels. Imbalances in these minerals may affect muscle function, blood pressure, heart rate, and hydration levels.
Call your doctor or healthcare provider if you notice the following symptoms and with no improvements:
How Do I Prevent Gastroparesis Symptoms with Dietary Changes?
Low fat and low fiber meal planning can significantly help you manage the onset of gastroparesis symptoms.
As a medical provider, Marshall helps patients understand key components of the gastroparesis diet – which is low fiber, low fat. The diet gives guidelines about which fruits and vegetables to avoid—and which ones to eat, she said. And to eat frequently and smaller meals.
For example, cooked fruits without skins, like apple sauce, are recommended. The diet also offers guidelines on other macro nutrients like how much protein to consume and which protein is best for people with the condition.
Small amounts of lean meats are better than fatty meats, like steak and pork chops. Foods like legumes and peas can cause gastric distress in some people with the condition.
Ask for a consultation with one of our GI specialists if you’d like more information about dietary changes
Request nutrition tips that can help you better manage gastroparesis
Gastroparesis: When Should I Call the Doctor?
When gastroparesis symptoms go haywire, how do you know when it’s time to call the doctor? This is probably one of the more challenging considerations.
Ask yourself these questions:
Do I feel faint, dizzy or dehydrated?
Have I had significant fluid loss today? (from vomiting)
If you answered yes to both questions—check in with your healthcare provider or call a telehealth nurse line if you have access to one.
It’s hard to know if the pain and nausea will pass. However, when you can’t keep any food or liquids down for several days—whether it comes up the front —or out the back end, check with your healthcare provider if your symptoms are not improving in a few days, Marshall said.
Did you find this blog useful? Browse our main blog page to find more topics.
Written by Elise Oberliesen, digital marketing specialist—medical review provided by Emily Marshall-PA-C, with Gastroenterology of the Rockies.
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