Having poor blood sugar control is already difficult if you have diabetes. Trying to keep your blood sugar levels in the normal ranges with gastroparesis, or slow stomach emptying, can further complicate blood sugar control. Take prescribed medication as directed, change your eating habits and closely monitor your blood sugar levels to treat blood sugars when you also suffer from gastroparesis.
Step 1
Eat small meals more often to aid in keeping your blood sugars level if you also have gastroparesis. Medline Plus, of the National Institutes of Health, states that eating small meals may improve food digestion, resulting in improved blood sugar levels. Consuming smaller amounts of food puts less strain on the stomach and allows a steady movement of food from the stomach to the intestines. Therefore, set a goal to eat small meals six times per day to improve your blood sugar control.
Step 2
Avoid eating high-fiber fruits and vegetables, such as oranges and broccoli, states Medline Plus. High-fiber foods form bezoars, which are balls of fibrous foods that are difficult to digest for patients with gastroparesis. Because these foods sit in the stomach, blood sugars may severely drop. Instead, cook high-fiber foods to soften them to make them easier to digest, which results in continual digestion and better blood sugar control.
Step 3
Take all medications prescribed to improve your gastroparesis. MayoClinic.com states that Reglan and erythromycin are commonly prescribed to improve your stomach function. These medications promote steady digestion and release of blood sugar into your bloodstream. While effective, these medications are often associated with significant side effects. In addition, you may take antiemetic medications, such as Zofran or Benadryl, to help ease nausea and vomiting associated with gastroparesis.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink plenty of water with your meals to aid digestion and blood sugar control.
- Low blood sugars are always a medical emergency. Never hesitate to seek immediate treatment.
