FAQ: Can I Eat Out with Gastroparesis?
As I’ve been working with more and more clients, I’ve been hearing one questions again and again: “can I still go out to eat?” I know that figuring out what to eat at home can often feel overwhelming, let alone what to eat in a restaurant. But it is absolutely possible to continuing going out to eat with family and friends despite a gastroparesis diagnosis (and enjoy it!). Here are my best tips:
Speak up: If possible, suggest a restaurant that you know will have something on the menu that you feel comfortable eating. If you don’t have the final say, at least suggest the types of places you’d like to visit or avoid. For example, Asian restaurants are usually a good bet for me, as there’s typically broth-based soup, white rice, and grilled or steamed protein options. I tend to avoid Italian restaurants, since tomato sauce causes my reflux symptoms to flare. The important thing here, as always, is to know what works for you. If you tolerate tomatoes without issue, an Italian restaurant may be a great bet for pasta and tomato sauce.
Research the menu: Once you know where you’re going, pull out your phone or computer and read through the menu. Almost all restaurant menus can be found online. Some also provide nutrition information. I like to take my time looking over my options and really tune into what feels right for me at the moment (since our tolerances can vary day to day). It can be uncomfortable to study the menu as others look on, asking if there's anything you can eat or suggesting things that they think you should be able to eat. You might even decide exactly what you’re going to order before you arrive.
Ask for modifications: If you can’t find anything on the menu that fits your needs, don’t hesitate to ask for modifications. A piece of grilled fish or chicken is almost always possible. Most restaurants will have a low-fat starch, whether it’s rice, pasta, or a plain baked potato.
Stretch your boundaries - if you want to: Eating something that’s not gastroparesis-friendly will not worsen gastroparesis. It may exacerbate your symptoms in the short-term but it’s not going to do any damage. If there’s something on the menu that’s not GP-friendly that you really want to order, you’re free to do that. If you want to stick to what you know works well for you, you’re free to do that, too. (If you do step outside your comfort zone… enjoy it! Don’t spend the whole time waiting to feel sick and second guessing your decision.)
Enjoy the company: Regardless of what you choose to eat, try not to focus solely on the food. Enjoy the company and conversation. Being social and continuing to fill life with people and experiences is an important part of living WELL.