Diet consistency modification improves postprandial glycemic and gastroparesis symptoms

Diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) is an autonomic neuropathy resulting from long-standing poorly controlled diabetes, and it is also linked to fluctuations in glycemic control due to variability on nutrient absorption.

Considering the scarcity of information, the aim of this study was to identify the impact of modifications on diet consistency on post-prandial glucose variability using a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and its effect on the perception and severity of gastrointestinal symptoms.

This proof-of-concept study was carried out in a cross-sectional cohort of six individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus with confirmed diagnosis of DGP. Two types of diet were used to evaluate glycemic control and DGP symptoms, general consistency standard meal (SD) and modified consistency test diet (MD), associated with an application of rapid acting insulin at the time of food intake. Glycemic control was evaluated by CGM, and the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) was applied after meals.

The CGM curve was different for MD + insulin and SD + insulin. There was a smaller increment of interstitial glucose with 2 h after MD + insulin, returning almost to the basal level 4 h later. Patients scored significantly lower GCSI after MD + insulin compared to the same index after they received SD + insulin. Moreover, there was a decrease in important clinical scores present in the index, like: "Not able to finish meal", "Loss of appetite" and "Stomach or belly feels larger".

This study showed that a modified diet can improve postprandial glycemic excursion and the perception and severity of gastroparesis symptoms.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-022-01117-w.