Nutrition concerns for the patient with gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a debilitating disease that is the consequence of a variety of conditions resulting in a significant loss of quality of life. Although many cases are mild, some patients have protracted nausea and vomiting, making it difficult, if not impossible, to maintain their hydration and nutritional status. Furthermore, therapeutic levels of medications, such as prokinetic and antiemetic agents, can be difficult to achieve. The intent of this article is to provide the clinician with suggestions to improve the nutritional status of patients with gastroparesis and offer strategies to deal with the nutritional insults that arise in these unfortunate patients.