What can I eat after pyloroplasty for gastroparesis?

What is the Pylorus and How Does it Contribute to Gastroparesis?

The pylorus is a sphincter muscle at the end of the stomach that opens and closes to regulate when the stomach empties digested food into the small intestine to be absorbed. Gastroparesis results, in part, from inflammation leaving the pylorus in the closed position to create a blockage. When swallowed air, liquids and foods cannot empty, the stomach stays full to create nausea, vomiting, early satiety, bloating and/or upper abdominal pain.

How Does Pyloroplasty Help Improve Gastroparesis?

Pyloroplasty is a surgical procedure that improves gastroparesis by opening the pylorus and decompressing the stomach. At the end of the operation, the pylorus is much more widely open; however, swelling develops to close this back down. Most patients report that they start feeling better about 2-weeks after surgery as the swelling goes down. Some feel improvement in just a few days. Others may take a month. Patients also have some additional improvement at 3-months, when the stiches dissolve to allow the pyloroplasty to stretch and open further.

What Can I Eat and Drink after Surgery?

Start Slow with Textures: After surgery, it’s common for the stomach to be sensitive. Begin with a diet that consists of soft, easy-to-digest foods. Smoothies, pureed vegetables, and creamy soups can help you gradually reintroduce more complex foods as you feel comfortable.
Incorporate Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals a day, focus on small, frequent meals or snacks. This approach eases the workload on your stomach, reduces bloating, and helps maintain steady energy levels.
Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods: Since your stomach may have reduced capacity to handle food, make each meal count! Incorporate nutrient-rich foods like:

Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, or plant-based options like beans and tofu.
Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil can provide essential fatty acids without overwhelming your digestive system.
Complex Carbohydrates: Opt for whole grains, sweet potatoes, and brown rice which provide fiber while still being easy on the stomach.

Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is critical, especially since some people with gastroparesis face challenges with fluid retention. Sipping on water throughout the day, alongside broths, herbal teas, or diluted juices, can keep you hydrated without feeling overly full.
Identify Potential Triggers: After surgery, pay attention to how certain foods affect your symptoms. Common potential triggers include high-fat foods, fibrous vegetables, and very spicy meals. Keep a food diary to better understand your individual responses to different foods.
Consider the Fiber Type: While fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet, after pyloroplasty, it might be beneficial to focus on soluble fiber, found in foods like oats, bananas, and apples, which can be easier to digest than insoluble fiber.

Collaborate with Your Healthcare Team

Your journey after pyloroplasty doesn’t have to be traveled alone. Collaborate closely with your healthcare team, which could include your doctor, dietitian, and gastroenterologist. A registered dietitian can provide tailored guidance, helping you create a personalized meal plan that caters to your unique needs.

Listen to Your Body

Above all, listen to your body. Each person’s experience with gastroparesis is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Pay attention to how you feel after different meals and adjust accordingly.

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