Q. Dietary management of gastritis?

Prompt medical care is successful in the management of an acute attack of gastritis only if it is accompanied by efficient and judicious nutritional care. During an acute attack, meeting the nutrient requirements is not of prime importance. Depending on the seriousness of the patient the food maybe with held for 24-48 hours. Fluids maybe given intravenously if needed. Liquid foods are given as per patient s tolerance level. The amount of food and number of feedings are adjusted according to the patient's tolerance, until a full regular diet is achieved. Always follow a progressive diet i. e, liquid to semi solid to solid as when the symptoms improve. The diet should contain less fat and must be bland. Many nutritional deficiencies occur in this disorder especially during chronic gastritis e.g. vitamin B12 iron, and other vitamin deficiencies.

The nutritional treatment must follow general principles of soft diet. The diet should be adequate in. calories and nutrients. There must be small feedings at regular intervals. Avoid gastric irritants and highly seasoned foods (onion garlic, chilli, caffeine, cola and alcohol). Excess water or other liquids with meals may cause distension.