Trade War: China slaps tariffs on 128 US products

The trade war between China and the US escalated on Monday, with Beijing slapping a tariff as high as 25 per cent on 128 American products.

China`s tit-for-tat move comes after US President Donald Trump announced to imposed trade charges of up to $60 billion on Chinese imports on March 22 and did not revoke them despite Beijing`s stern warning.

The Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council has decided to impose a tariff of 15 per cent on 120 items of products imported from the US including fruits and related products, and a tariff of 25 per cent on eight items of imports including pork and related products from the country, according to a statement posted on the ministry website.


The tariffs come into effect from Monday.

Although in violation of World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, the US measure went into effect on March 23, which has severely undermined China`s interests, Xinhua quoted the statement as saying.

China advocates and supports a multilateral trade system, the ministry said, noting that to suspend tariff concession on US imports is a just move to safeguard China`s interests using WTO rules.

The US said it imposed tariffs because of the intellectual property theft of American companies by China.

Red meat linked to higher colon cancer risk

Having a diet free from red meat can help women reduce the risk of a type of colon cancer, suggests new research.

"The impact of different types of red meat and dietary patterns on cancer locations is one of the biggest challenges in the study of diet and colorectal cancer," said lead author of the study Diego Rada Fernandez de Jauregui from the University of Leeds in Britain.

"Our research is one of the few studies looking at this relationship and while further analysis in a larger study is needed, it could provide valuable information for those with a family history of colorectal cancer and those working on prevention," he said.


The findings, showed that those regularly eating red meat compared to a red meat-free diet had higher rates of distal colon cancer -- cancer found on the descending section of the colon, where faeces is stored.

The study used data from the United Kingdom Women's Cohort Study. This cohort included a total of 32,147 women from England, Wales and Scotland.

"Our study not only helps shed light on how meat consumption may affect the sections of the colorectum differently, it emphasises the importance of reliable dietary reporting from large groups of people," said study co-author Janet Cade, Professor at the University of Leeds.

Previous studies have blamed several factors for the link between red meat and colon cancer, including on chemicals produced when meat is cooked at high temperatures and on preservatives such as nitrates used in processed meats.

GERD Diet: 8 Worst Foods for Acid Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive condition that is characterized by severe, persistent acid reflux (often referred to as heartburn). It affects approximately one in five Americans and is commonly caused by factors such as obesity, leaky gut syndrome, and high stress levels.

While there are medications available to help treat GERD, long-term use of them can lead to a wide variety of side effects and risks. As such, many people choose to alleviate their symptoms by removing certain trigger foods from their diet—including these eight.

1. High Fat Foods

According to Healthline.com, “acid reflux occurs when there is acid backflow from the stomach into the esophagus,” which happens due to a weakened or damaged lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Eating high fat foods is one such cause of this weakening, as the source says they can “cause the LES to relax, allowing more stomach acid to back up into the esophagus.”

Additionally, the source indicates that high fat foods slow down the emptying of the stomach, allowing more time for acid to move up into the esophagus. Some examples of foods to avoid include fried foods like French fries and onion rings, full-fat dairy products, and fatty meats like beef and pork.

2. Tomatoes and Citrus Fruits

Due to their high acidity, WebMD says citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are considered “classic heartburn foods,” especially if consumed on an empty stomach. Other examples of citrus fruits include lemons, limes, and pomelos.

While not a citrus fruit, tomatoes are another food that people with GERD should avoid eating. They contain citric and malic acid, which Livestrong.com indicates, “can make the stomach produce too much gastric acid,” and if acid levels are too high it can lead to heartburn.

3. Chocolate

Unfortunately for those who love chocolate, Health.com says it “seems to cause more reflux than any other food.” There are a few reasons for this, the first of which is because it contains caffeine and other stimulants like theobromine and methylxanthine, which are known to relax the LES and cause reflux.

Additionally, chocolate is high in fat which, as mentioned previously, delays stomach emptying. And finally, the source says that the cocoa powder in chocolate can also cause heartburn, as it is considered acidic.

4. Onions, Garlic and Spicy Foods

While not the case for everyone, in many people onions can trigger acid reflux. In speaking with Livestrong.com, Jeremy Tian, Ph.D., M.D., says that they “lower the pressure with which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) closes to separate the stomach from the esophagus,” and also that they increase the amount of time stomach acid levels are high, which “exacerbates heartburn and belching.”

Garlic and spicy foods are also considered trigger foods for some people, especially if they consume a lot of them. To determine whether or not they pose an issue for you, Healthline.com suggests keeping a food diary to track your body’s response after eating them.

5. Coffee

Like chocolate, coffee contains caffeine and, as mentioned earlier, caffeine relaxes the LES, allowing stomach acid to move back up into the esophagus. Luckily, WebMD says you don’t have to give it up entirely; rather, it’s about reducing consumption and being mindful of portion sizes.

If you struggle with heartburn, the source indicates that you “can likely consume a 3- or 4-ounce cup of coffee each morning with no problem.” If you drink it consistently throughout the day, however, issues may arise.

6. Mint

It may come as a bit of a surprise, but mint—such as peppermint or spearmint—can cause acid reflux in some people. This includes herbal teas, as well as products that contain mint flavoring, such as breath mints and chewing gum.

While peppermint is often used to soothe indigestion, Livestrong.com says it can trigger heartburn in people with GERD due to the menthol relaxing the LES and allowing stomach acid to make its way into the esophagus.

7. Alcohol

Like the other foods mentioned on this list, alcohol relaxes the LES, leading to acid reflux. Although you may not experience heartburn issues after consuming a drink or two of alcohol on its own, WebMD says it can be problematic if consumed alongside a big meal—especially if that meal contains any of the previously mentioned triggers.

If you do choose to have an alcoholic drink on occasion, Livestrong.com suggests avoiding carbonated choices like beer or champagne, as well as mixers like orange juice and soda, which are known to cause heartburn.

8. Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages like soda can prove problematic for people with GERD. In speaking with Livestrong.com, Jeremy Tian, Ph.D., M.D., explains that this is because “The gas released from carbonated beverages increases gastric pressure,” which can push open the LES and allow acid into the esophagus.

Additionally, carbonated beverages often contain caffeine, which is acidic and a known heartburn trigger. The source adds that diet products can be even worse for acid reflux, “typically having a pH between 2.5 and 3.7.”

10 Natural Appetite Suppressing Foods

How satisfied did you feel this morning after noshing on that sesame seed bagel with cream cheese? It’s surprising how after consuming almost 700 calories in one sitting, you can already be itching for a trip to the vending machine!

The good news is that if you eat certain foods—healthy foods that will actually make you feel full for longer—you’ll curb calories and weight gain. So why not incorporate these ten tummy-pleasing fillers into your weekly meal planning…

1. Avocado

Avocados are jam-packed with fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, which both help suppress a hungry appetite and make you feel full. Just be sure to eat them in moderation as they are quite high in fat—good fat—but still, it is fat!

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweets are healthier alternatives to starchy white potatoes. Why? Because they are a high source of vitamin C and vitamin A—minus the soaring carbohydrates and empty calories. Plus they contain a particular type of starch that resists digestive enzymes so they remain in your stomach, making you feel satiated for longer.

3. Oats

Swap that morning bagel and cream cheese with a bowl of slow-digesting oats and you’ll feel full well into the lunch hour.  That’s right, oats contain a hunger-satiating hormone, called ghrelin, and their also extremely low on the glycemic index. Just stick to plain oats and add your own natural sugars from honey, apple butter, vanilla, cinnamon, agave syrup, or a touch of real maple syrup.

4. Water

Studies show that oftentimes when you get hunger pangs, your body is trying to tell you that you’re just thirsty. So before you slam a box of cookies; try taming your appetite with a cold glass of water to see if it’s just dehydration.  Research shows that those who drink a glass or two of water before a meal—eat less!

5. Almonds

A handful of almonds to nosh on when you’re feeling nibblie can be enough to squelch those temptations for something crunchy between meals. Almonds are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamin E, and magnesium, but keep your servings to a handful for a healthy snack!

6. Ginger

Ginger root has been used for decades, throughout many cultures for its digestive prowess. Sliced and added to a smoothie, sprinkled on a stir fry, or steeped in tea, ginger actually stimulates the body and eases the digestive process, in turn, making your tummy feel comfortable and content.

7. Green Tea

My nutritionist recommended a cup of green tea mid day to curb my 2:30pm snack attack at work! And you know what? It worked like a charm because green tea contains catechins, which help inhibit the movement of glucose into fat cells, keeping blood sugar and insulin balanced and regular so you don’t experience a blood sugar crash that only a chocolate bar can satisfy.

8. Cayenne Pepper

Add a little spice to your day with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper on your meals. A mere half teaspoon will boost your metabolism and keep you burning calories even when you’re not moving. In fact, studies show that adding a half teaspoon of the spice to 2 meals each day, for one month will result in 3 to 4 pounds of weight shed.

9. Cinnamon

I use cinnamon on everything—in my coffee, on my oatmeal, and on fruit and yogurt. Sure, the no calorie spice tastes great, but it also helps lower your blood sugar levels, thus curbing your appetite!

10. Coffee

Have you ever noticed that after a cup of coffee, you’re not as famished? One to 2 cups a day (a moderate amount) will infuse you with vital antioxidants (from the coffee beans), which works to boost your metabolism so you’re more alert and active, and also curbs the appetite. Just resist adding extra fat and calories with sugar and cream. Drink it black or use low fat coffee whiteners and sweeteners (like Stevia or agave syrup).

Process These 6 Foods That are Difficult to Digest

Indigestion can be a sign of a chronic problem, or it can be an occasional thing based on the foods you’ve had for lunch or dinner, notes QualityHealth.com. The simple truth is that certain foods can tax your digestive system more than others, leading to feelings of bloating, pain or excessive gas.

Unfortunately, these foods also have health benefits (proteins and vitamins), so it doesn’t mean you need to eliminate them (unless advised by a doctor or dietician). You can slow down your eating, try smaller portions, or even cut these foods into smaller pieces to help process them more easily. Here are six food types that can be particularly tough on your digestive system…

1. Red Meat

QualityHealth explains that humans actually have an easier time digesting meat proteins than vegetable proteins, but the trouble is that “meat often stays in the stomach longer,” which can slow down the digestion of other foods.

When you have food sitting in your stomach longer, you’re more likely to feel bloated or become gaseous, adds the source. Fatty meats are often more difficult to digest than lean meats, and overcooking red meats can also lengthen the digestion process, it adds. Try grinding up the meat or eating smaller pieces, it suggests.

2. Dairy

Lactose found in milk and cheese can be hard on some digestive systems – while some people are outright lactose intolerant, and their bodies will scream at them if they try to consume these types of products.

EveryDayHealh.com notes this is a food group that should be avoided if you’re already experiencing digestive issues. “If you consume too much lactose, it goes into the large intestine, and diarrhea can develop or worsen,” it explains.

3. Corn

Manhattan Gastroenterology explains “too much of anything is bad for digestion,” but corn can fall into the list of things that aren’t friendly to your digestive health. Sure, it’s delicious and generally not bad you, but it contains high levels of cellulose, a fiber that the stomach has trouble breaking down, explains the source.

Corn actually passes through your system undigested, and it can result in painful cramping and gas in the process, it adds. Other sources suggest trying creamed corn as an alternative, as the process helps break down the tough exterior.

4. Cruciferous Vegetables

Veggies that fall into this category include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower, explains QualityHealth. These are all loaded with vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants, which have been shown to reduce free radicals and lessen risk of certain cancers.

However, these types of veggies also contain an “indigestible sugar” called raffinose, “which can ultimately cause gas buildup in the colon that leads to uncomfortable bloating.” Adding prebiotics and probiotic foods (including yogurt) to your diet can lessen the number of “gas-forming bacteria” in the colon that can cause bloating, it adds.

5. Berries

We think of berries of all types as good for us, which is generally true. However, ones that contain many tiny seeds can be a problem for those with pre-existing digestive issues including diverticulitis, explains Health.com.

With this particular health condition, pockets form in the intestinal tract that can become inflamed or even infected, says the source. The theory is that seeds can obstruct the pockets and increase risk of infection (although the source points out this has never been proven a study). It notes to monitor how you feel after eating berries with lots of seeds (such as strawberries), and even sunflower and pumpkin seeds. Meanwhile, other sources note that citrus fruits and even apples can be tough on digestive processes because of their soluble fiber content. The small intestine doesn’t actually have the enzymes to break down this type of fiber.

6. Whole Grains

There are a lot of articles touting the benefits of a whole grain diet over a refined flour diet, as it retains more nutrients. However, while refined grains can spike your blood sugar, they’re also easy for your body to digest, notes Healthline.com. “That means that whole-grain breads, rolls, and bagels are not necessarily good choices,” it explains.

Even whole grain pasta, granola and brown rice may be tough on your digestive system too, it adds. As an added warning, the source says to avoid grain products that contain raisins, nuts and seeds. It even goes as far as to suggest you should ditch cereals that contain bran. However, talk to a dietician before switching back to refined wheat products.

Health Benefits of This Thing Called Love

Love is one of those emotions that’s difficult to define and one that falls into many categories. We can say we love our parents, our children, our dog, our friends, our job, and our car. Obviously the degree of affection, attention, chemistry, and feeling we assign to each is not the same, but we tend to use the same word, at times a bit too freely. So when it comes right down to it, what is this thing called love and what is it good for?

One thing researchers are coming to agree on is that love is good for our health.

There are some cool things happening behind the scenes at the cellular level, both during short-term and long-term love relationships.

For example, it’s been shown that levels of a certain love hormone (oxytocin; more on that later) are high during the first six months of new romantic partnerships when compared with unattached singles. This is just one example of the internal biological processes that are occurring between loving couples. But how do those processes translate into health benefits?

HEALTH BENEFITS OF LOVE

According to Melissa Vallas, MD, a child and adolescent psychiatrist in California, “Loving and stable relationships can help to improve a person’s ability to manage stress and can help to decrease anxiety and depression.” One reason for this benefit is the presence of oxytocin, a hormone that is released when we touch people we love or care about, when we have sex, or even when we are getting together with friends.

The more we engage in loving relationships and connections, the more oxytocin we accumulate. Oxytocin can boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, reduce pain, increase energy, and decrease stress in your life.

Some of the best health benefits of love appear to be associated with couples who are going the distance. Harry Reis, PhD, co-editor of the Encyclopedia of Human Relationships, noted “there’s no evidence that the intense, passionate stage of a new romance is beneficial to health,” but individuals in “satisfying, long-term relationships fare better on a whole variety of health measures.”

In addition to a reduction in stress, depression, and anxiety, long-term loving relationships (especially marriage, but also friendships) are also associated with the following health benefits:

Lower Blood Pressure

If you have a happy, loving marriage, there’s a good chance your blood pressure is healthy, according to a study in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine. Single individuals who had a strong social network also did well but came in second, while unhappily married people showed the worst blood pressure.

Pain control

Brain scans don’t lie. In a study from Stony Brook University in New York, researchers studied brain scans of people who said they were still madly in love with their partners even after an average of 21 years of marriage. The experts discovered two interesting findings. One, these couples showed activation of brain sites associated with pain relief and pleasure; and two they displayed significantly less anxiety and intrusive thinking than individuals newly in love.

Strong Immune System

Being in love—and other positive emotions—can boost your immune system. A study from Carnegie Mellon University found that individuals who portray positive emotions are less likely to contract the flu and common cold than are negative, depressed, or hostile people. Love may also help heal wounds faster, as demonstrated by married couples given blister wounds. Those who had a loving relationship had higher oxytocin levels and also healed nearly twice as fast as those who demonstrated hostility toward each other.

Lower Risk of Heart Problems

Again, the scientific evidence looked at married folks, and this time they found that being married was linked to lower heart risks. The study evaluated more than 3.5 million adults and discovered that heart problems were less likely for spouses than for divorced, single, or widowed individuals. Although love in particular was not examined in this study, the study’s lead investigator, Carlos L. Alviar, MD, noted that “Of course, it’s true that not all marriages are created equal, but we would expect the size of this study population to account for variations in good and bad marriages.”

Longer Life

If you want to live longer, stay in love! Although most of the research has focused on married couples, unmarried partners in loving long-term relationships likely can experience the same benefit. According to Dr. Reis, the reasons why research shows that married people tend to live longer than their unmarried or never married counterparts goes beyond the financial benefits and practical support marriage can provide. He believes the longer life benefit comes from couples feeling connected and loved, whereas “Loneliness is associated with all-cause mortality—dying for any reason.” And based on research from Dan Buettner, author of The Blue Zones, committing to a life partner can add up to 3 years to your life.

More Joyful Life

It seems a no-brainer that one of the big benefits of love is joy. However, researchers are always trying to come up with scientific proof of things that seem obvious, so here is one example of such an effort. In a study appearing in the Journal of Family Psychology, the authors found that one of the most impactful effects of love is joy, and that joy rises from having healthy, loving family and friend relationships rather than income level.

The Best Diet for Gastroparesis (Delayed Gastric Emptying)

Gastroparesis is a condition in which the food in your stomach empties at a delayed rate. This can cause uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms and even lead to malnutrition. While there are medical treatment options, a new diet is typically the most effective way to manage symptoms.

What is the best diet for gastroparesis based on current knowledge and evidence? Check out this sample diet plan and some thoughts about the low FODMAP diet.

What is Gastroparesis (Delayed Gastric Emptying)?

Gastroparesis is a term used to describe slowed stomach emptying. In fact, it is also commonly called delayed gastric emptying or simply GP for short. This means that food entering the stomach stays there for extended periods of time before moving along to the rest of the digestive tract.

It’s a condition that impacts about 4% of the U.S. population (1).

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GASTROPARESIS

Gastroparesis symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the degree of stomach paralysis. Numerous signs and symptoms occur after eating, including:

• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Retching (dry heaves)
• Stomach discomfort and/or pain
• Early satiety (fullness)
• Feeling full with eating a normal-sized meal

Cases of severe and untreated gastroparesis can result in dehydration, altered blood sugar levels, malnutrition and unintentional weight loss.

CAUSES OF GASTROPARESIS

With gastroparesis, vagus nerve and/or muscle damage may impair the stomach’s ability to contract and release properly. This means food and fluid in the stomach remain there for longer, hence the term “delayed emptying”.

In most cases, the condition is idiopathic (of an unknown cause), but it can also be caused by:

• Diabetes
• Surgeries like bariatric, stomach or esophageal surgery
• Medications including narcotics and antacids
• Other illnesses such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, scleroderma, thyroid disease
• Post-viral infection
• Cellular changes.

MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR DELAYED GASTRIC EMPTYING

While the first line of treatment typically involves a change in diet, there are also various prescription drugs that target symptoms or work to stimulate the muscles controlling stomach emptying.

• To help manage symptoms: Promotility and anti-nausea drugs are often used, including metoclopramide, domperidone, prochlorperazine and promethazine.
• To manage pain: NSAIDs, low-dose cyclic antidepressants and nerve-blocking drugs can also be taken.
• To help stimulate muscle contraction: Medications like cisapride, domperidone, metoclopramide or erythromycin may be prescribed.

In case drugs are ineffective, a pacemaker may be recommended. Pacemakers electrically stimulate stomach muscles and seem to be most helpful for those with diabetes-related gastroparesis.

In rare cases, surgeries like partial gastrectomy and pyloroplasty are used (2).

GASTRIC EMPTYING TESTS AND SCANS

Blood tests, upper endoscopy, stomach X-ray and ultrasound are typically performed to help rule out any potential stomach obstructions. 

After that, stomach-emptying tests are used to measure the rate in which food leaves the stomach. These tests include scintigraphy, breath testing and a wireless motility capsule (SmartPill).

Scintigraphy

This test assesses gastric emptying rate and is the ideal choice for diagnosing gastroparesis. You’ll eat a small, bland meal consistency of some radioactive material.

Afterwards, the abdomen is scanned to track the speed of the meal leaving the stomach. If over 10% of the meal is still in the stomach after four hours, then gastroparesis is typically confirmed.

Breath Test

If you prefer a non-radioactive diagnostic approach, try the breath test.

You’ll eat a meal that contains carbon-13 stable isotope. This labeled gas can then be measured through the breath to help calculate gastric emptying rate.

Wireless Motility Capsule

This high-tech assessment is also called a SmartPill test.

You’ll swallow a capsule that transmits data about your digestive process to a small receiver. The capsule is naturally excreted after about two days.

BEST DIET FOR GASTROPARESIS

While there is no one best diet for gastroparesis, there are specific strategies that help support digestion and stomach motility.

These four factors impact stomach emptying rate and should be considered when developing a diet for gastroparesis:

• Liquids: Thin liquids like water, broth and juices rapidly empty the stomach. They require little to no digestion and use the effect of gravity to move down to the small intestine. Thicker liquids such as pureed soups or smoothies empty at a slower rate.
• Solids: Solid food requires more work for the stomach, which needs to break it down to pass into the small intestine. This process slows stomach emptying.
• Nutrient Composition: Fiber and fat-rich foods and oils also take longer to empty from the stomach. Carbohydrates can pass through the quickest, followed by proteins (3).
• Food Temperature: The temperature of food when it enters the stomach affects when it leaves. Hot meals and beverages will exit the stomach faster than cool foods and liquids (4).

THE THREE-PHASED DIET APPROACH

With these concepts in mind, a three-phased diet approach is often recommended for those with gastroparesis.

Phase One

• Lasting less than three days, the first phase consists of thin liquids and saltine crackers.
• Calories are inadequate, typically under 800 daily, so this phase should last no longer than three days, unless additional nutrition support is included.
• Gatorade, ginger ale and other sodas, broths, juices and water are consumed. Since you’ll only be meeting your fluid and electrolyte needs these days, it’s important to follow this phase under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

Phase Two

Fat intake progressively increases up to 40 grams daily. Calories may still be less than adequate, but should slowly increase as tolerated.

• This phase typically lasts 4-6 weeks, but depends on the degree of improvement in your symptoms.
• Food choices may include fat-free dairy, thicker soups, grains (not whole grains), eggs, peanut butter (limit to two tablespoons), fruit and vegetable juices, canned fruits, peeled and well-cooked veggies, and low-fat desserts (puddings, frozen yogurt, gelatin, popsicles, etc.).

Phase Three

• Calorie and fat intake increases up to 50 grams daily.
• This is considered a maintenance phase, and should still be monitored and modified under the care of your healthcare professional.
• Continue focusing on a low-fiber diet and eating smaller meals spaced throughout the day. Tailor the diet to meet your specific nutritional needs.

In case your needs are not fully met on this plan, talk to your healthcare provider about using a multivitamin or mineral supplement. In severe cases, short- or long-term enteral (feeding-tube) or parenteral (intravenous) nutrition may be required.

ESSENTIAL LONG-TERM DIET TIPS FOR GASTROPARESIS

Try these simple diet tips to keep symptoms of gastroparesis at bay:

Eat Small, Frequent Meals

This allows you to meet your calorie and nutrient needs without overfilling the stomach. You’ll feel less bloated and uncomfortable with smaller portions of food.

Chew Your Food Well

This will help relieve your stomach from overworking to break down food. When food is broken down by your teeth it also has time to mix with salivary enzymes to “pre-digest” before being swallowed.

Take Advantage of Gravity

By remaining upright and going for a light walk after eating, your food is more likely to be pulled down into the small intestine to continue digesting. Avoid eating too late at night and/or taking naps or reclining in a chair after eating.

Consider Liquid-Meal Replacements

Products like Ensure and Boost or homemade protein shakes or smoothies can help you meet your calorie needs.

Avoid High-Fat Foods

Skip the fried foods, high-fat meats, full-fat dairy and baked goods. Instead, enjoy limited amounts of healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, avocado, nut or seed butters and fatty fish.

Limit Fiber Intake

Avoid high fiber foods like whole grains and legumes (e.g. beans, peas, lentils), as well as the skins and seeds of fruits and veggies. This helps reduce the risk of developing bezoars, which can cause stomach blockages.

Enjoy Your Nuts & Seeds Pureed

Nut and seed butters are more easily digested than whole nuts and seeds. But don’t overdo these if you’re trying to lose weight— they’re still high in fat and therefore high in calories.

Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods

Since every calorie counts, don’t waste them on junk food. Choose 100 percent juice, low-fat dairy products, peeled fruits and vegetables, lean meats and seafood. Occasional intake of treats is okay, focusing on lower fat options like rice krispy treats, low fat pudding and angel food cake.

Avoid Alcohol

Drinks like vodka, rum, tequila, etc., can slow gastric motility (5).

SAMPLE GASTROPARESIS DIET PLAN

Your maintenance diet for gastroparesis may include the following foods:

• Fruits & Vegetables: baby food, homemade fruit and vegetable purees, canned and/or frozen fruits and vegetables, 100% fruit or vegetable juice, smoothies, pureed low-fat vegetable soups, well-cooked and de-skinned vegetable
• Proteins: low-fat or fat-free milk, low-fat or fat-free yogurt, low-fat or fat-free cheese, lean (not skin, fat-trimmed) meat and poultry, ground lean meats, eggs or egg whites, fish, shellfish, limited creamy nut/seed butters
• Starches: white rices, white breads, mashed potatoes (skin removed), pastas, noodles, crackers, cereals (avoid whole grains)
• Oils: any as long as they are limited overall (under 50 grams of fat daily)

SAMPLE 3-DAY DIET PLAN

Below is a sample meal plan you may follow, though it should be adjusted for your specific calorie and nutrient needs.

Day One

• Breakfast: 1 cup of puffed rice cereal with skim milk and sliced ripe bananas
• Snack 1: apple sauce
• Lunch: chicken noodle soup, 6 saltine crackers
• Snack 2: saltine crackers with a thin layer of almond butter
• Dinner: Chinese stir fry with white rice, tofu, well-cooked veggies (carrots, onions, snow peas) with soy sauce
• Snack 3: low-fat pudding cup

Day Two

• Breakfast: 2 slices of white toast lightly topped with peanut butter and strawberry jam, Ensure/Boost shake
• Snack 1: canned peaches
• Lunch: egg noodles tossed with steamed shrimp and stewed tomatoes
• Snack 2: green juice, pretzels
• Dinner: roasted vegetable soup, side of turkey
• Snack 3: frozen yogurt popsicle

Day Three

• Breakfast: scrambled egg whites with sauteed spinach and pinch of low-fat cheddar cheese, side of canned pineapple chunks
• Snack 1: protein shake
• Lunch: smoothie with low-fat yogurt, frozen berries, orange juice, protein powder
• Snack 2: vegetable soup
• Dinner: baked salmon with side of mashed potatoes
• Snack 3: cream of wheat with honey and spoonful of peanut butter

GASTROPARESIS AND THE LOW FODMAP DIET

If you have implemented all the above strategies with little success, there is one other option.

The main symptoms of gastroparesis (particularly bloating) greatly overlap with those of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Both these conditions can be treated with a low FODMAP diet, among other things.

In fact, there is evidence that those with gastroparesis are much more likely to have or develop SIBO (6).

Given the overlap, some doctors and even patients have begun to wonder if minimizing FODMAPs will also help with this condition. I was unable to find any scientific literature yet, but theoretically it makes sense that it would help.

DIET CHANGES REQUIRES SOME TRIAL AND ERROR

Gastroparesis slows down the rate at which food in the stomach empties.

It’s often due to conditions that impair the nerve and muscle functioning of the stomach. While medical treatments are available, dietary change is the initial and ideal option.

The best diet for gastroparesis typically depends on the severity of the condition. Initially you may consider trying the three-phased gastroparesis diet, which starts with clear liquids, and then slowly progresses to a maintenance plan of nutrient-rich foods.

When symptoms are acting up, it’s generally best to eat smaller meals, limit fiber, choose low-fat options and consider liquid meal replacements as needed. You can also consider trialling a low FODMAP diet if nothing else has helped.