Introduction
Gastroparesis is a digestive disorder characterized by a malfunction of the stomach muscles. It is a condition that prevents the stomach from emptying properly. People with gastroparesis often experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, feeling full after eating only a small amount of food, and weight loss. It can be very uncomfortable and cause a person to feel weak and tired. Eating a nutritious diet is key to managing the symptoms of gastroparesis. Thus, understanding which foods to eat and which to avoid is important. One food that people with gastroparesis may be wondering about is cheese. Can someone with gastroparesis eat cheese without making their symptoms worse?
Overview
Cheese is a popular dairy product and can be a nutritious part of the diet. However, it can also be very hard to digest for those with gastroparesis or any digestive disorder. Eating too much cheese can make a person feel bloated and cause abdominal pain because it can take a long time to be broken down. Cheese also contains a lot of fat, which can also make digestive symptoms worse. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the amount and type of cheese that is eaten when a person has gastroparesis.
Expert Advice
According to the National Institutes of Health, people with gastroparesis should avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods, including cheese. Eating a low-fat diet is recommended to help reduce symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. The American College of Gastroenterology also advises people to limit their intake of cheese, as some kinds can be inflammatory and can irritate the stomach.
Registered dietitian Amanda Jones suggests including low-fat cheese in moderation. She recommends looking for low-fat alternatives, such as cottage cheese or ricotta cheese, which are easier to digest. Additionally, she advises adding small amounts of nutritious cheese to meals, such as grating a small amount of Parmesan cheese over cooked vegetables. Jones also suggests incorporating yogurt and Greek yogurt into the diet for an extra source of protein and calcium.
Types of Cheese
When eating cheese with gastroparesis, it is important to consider the type of cheese. Soft cheeses such as cream cheese, Brie, and goat cheese should be avoided as they contain more fat and can be harder to digest. Hard cheeses such as Cheddar, Gouda, and Provolone tend to be lower in fat and have less lactose, making them easier to digest. It is also important to note that processed cheese, such as American cheese, should be avoided as it contains additives and preservatives that can aggravate the digestive system.
Making It Easier to Digest
Cheese can be difficult to digest, so it is important to prepare it in a way that makes it easier to digest. Registered Dietitian Brigette Callaghan advises shredding cheese instead of slicing it, as this will make it easier to digest. Additionally, it is important to cook the cheese, as the heat helps to break down the proteins and fats. Finally, it is important to eat the cheese as part of a balanced meal with other nutritious options, such as lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. This will help to add nutrients and balance the effects of the cheese on the digestive system.
Enzyme Supplements
If cheese provides too much difficulty to digest, enzyme supplements may be an option. Enzyme supplements can help to break down the proteins and fats in cheese and other foods. This can help to reduce symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain. If considering an enzyme supplement, it is important to discuss with a doctor or dietitian to ensure it is the right option.
Timing
Another important consideration when eating cheese with gastroparesis is timing. Eating cheese at the end of a meal can help to reduce the digestive symptoms. This is because the other foods in the meal can help to break down the cheese and make it easier to digest. Additionally, eating cheese with other nutritious foods can help to reduce the fat content and provide extra nutrition such as calcium.
Alternative Dairy Sources
Although cheese can provide a nutritious part of the diet, there are other dairy sources that can be beneficial to those with gastroparesis. Dairy alternatives such as almond milk, cashew milk, and coconut milk are lower in fat and can be easier to digest. Additionally, they are packed with essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein. These alternatives can be used in place of cow’s milk in smoothies, on cereal, and even for baking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cheese can be a nutritious part of the diet when eaten in moderation. However, for those with gastroparesis it is important to consider the amount and type of cheese that is eaten and how it is prepared. Eating cheese with other nutritious food can help to make it easier to digest. In addition, dairy alternatives can provide essential nutrients without causing a worsening of symptoms. Understanding these tips can help to make it easier for someone with gastroparesis to eat cheese and still manage their symptoms.
Follow Up Care
It is important to follow up with a medical professional to monitor the symptoms of gastroparesis. A doctor or dietitian can provide feedback if the symptoms are getting worse or if adjustments need to be made to the diet. Periodically speaking with a medical professional is important to ensure that the dietary plan is working and that the patient is meeting their nutriton needs.
Nutrient Requirements
Those with gastroparesis must ensure that they are meeting their nutrient requirements. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat proteins can help to ensure that the patient is meeting their nutrition needs. Dairy products such as cheese can be important sources of calcium, protein, and vitamin D.
Recipes
Finding recipes that are specific for those with gastroparesis can be helpful in meeting their nutrition needs. There are many recipes available online that are designed with gastroparesis in mind and that are low in fat and easy to digest. These recipes can provide ideas for meals and snacks that are appropriate for those with gastroparesis.
Support Groups
Having support when living with a digestive condition can be invaluable. There are various online support groups where people with gastroparesis can connect and share experiences. These groups can provide comfort and understanding as well as advice and tips for managing the condition.
