Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What dietary modification might be recommended for a person with gastroparesis?

1. High-fiber meals.

2. Frequent, small, high-fat meals.

3. Low-carb high-protein meals.

4. Excessive sugar intake.

The correct answer is: Frequent, small, high-fat meals.

Frequent, small, high-fat meals are recommended for individuals with gastroparesis due to the condition's impact on gastric emptying. Gastroparesis slows down the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines, leading to symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and early satiety. High-fat meals can help by providing more calories without increasing the volume of food, making it easier to manage symptoms. Eating small meals throughout the day reduces the burden on the stomach compared to larger meals, which can take longer to digest and may worsen discomfort. Additionally, fats slow gastric emptying, which can be beneficial for individuals who struggle with portion control or who need to maintain weight without exacerbating symptoms. In contrast, high-fiber meals can increase gastrointestinal bulk and may not empty from the stomach as efficiently, leading to more discomfort. Low-carb high-protein diets can also be challenging for these individuals as protein digestion, especially without sufficient gastric motility, can be problematic. Excessive sugar intake is generally not advisable due to its potential to cause rapid spikes in blood glucose and may lead to digestive issues. Therefore, frequent, small, high-fat meals serve as a practical approach to managing gastroparesis effectively.