Gastroparesis treatment: Practical steps that actually help

Gastroparesis slows your stomach so food sits and digests very slowly. That causes nausea, bloating, early fullness, and blood sugar swings if you have diabetes. You don’t have to accept constant symptoms—small changes often make a big difference. Below are simple, evidence-based options you can try or discuss with your doctor.

Quick diet fixes that help

Start with food. Most people get noticeable relief from simple diet changes: eat smaller meals more often (4–6 times a day), avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods that slow emptying, and choose softer or blended foods. Liquids and purees empty faster than solid meals—think smoothies, soups, and meal replacement shakes. Chew well and eat slowly. Sitting upright during and for 30–60 minutes after meals helps gravity do its work. Also, limit alcohol and carbonated drinks; they can worsen bloating and nausea.

If you have diabetes, keep blood sugar under control. High blood sugar itself slows gastric emptying, so working with your diabetes team to avoid highs after meals often improves symptoms. Ask about timing of insulin or other meds around meals—small adjustments can matter.

Medical and procedural options

When diet isn’t enough, medications are the next step. Prokinetic drugs boost stomach movement. Metoclopramide is commonly used but watch for side effects like movement problems; keep use short-term and follow doctor guidance. Domperidone can help and has fewer central side effects but isn’t available everywhere—your clinician can advise. Low-dose erythromycin sometimes helps as a short-term option, though effectiveness can fall off with time.

Antiemetics such as ondansetron or promethazine control nausea but don’t speed emptying. If medications fail, procedures exist: gastric electrical stimulation can reduce nausea for some people. Endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) is an emerging option that targets the pyloric muscle to improve emptying. For severe cases where nutrition suffers, a feeding tube placed beyond the stomach (jejunostomy) may be needed. Each procedure has risks and benefits—discuss them with a gastroenterologist experienced in motility disorders.

Other practical tips: avoid meds that slow the gut (like opioids and some anticholinergics) when possible. Stay active—short walks after meals can speed emptying. Keep a symptom and food diary to spot problem foods and patterns. If your symptoms suddenly worsen or you have severe dehydration, weight loss, or vomiting, seek care quickly.

Gastroparesis can be managed with a mix of diet, meds, and targeted procedures. Work with your care team—GI, primary care, and diabetes specialists if needed—to build a plan that fits your life. Small, consistent steps often lead to the biggest gains.