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Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis Book Review

This Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis book review shows that it is a good introductory book on gastroparesis and those newly diagnosed would find it most helpful.

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Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis was written by Cry                  stal Zaborowski Saltrelli who was diagnosed with gastroparesis in 2004. Her journey with gastroparesis reminded me a lot of my own: a few vague instructions from the doctor to follow the diet and nothing more. She then took a proactive approach to her health and studied to become a Certified Health Counselor. Everything she learned from her education and personal experiences is compiled in this book.  Read my Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis book review to find out how well it covers tips and advice for living with gastroparesis.

Not everyone has the same gastroparesis symptoms, but Saltrelli writes that readers of this book with gp will be able to form a gastroparesis management plan. I think everyone can agree that living well with gastroparesis is a constant battle which is why I had high hopes for this book. Saltrelli writes, “This is your journey, after all. I’m just your guide.”  Read on to find out if this is a good guide for gastroparesis.

Medical Aspects of Gastroparesis

The beginning of the book covers an overview of the medical aspects of gastroparesis. I knew most of the things discussed due to my experience with the disease. If you’re newly diagnosed, you may find it helpful. The next section discusses dietary modifications. It provides a great overview on how and what to eat when you have gp. I really loved the tip about diluting meal replacement drinks with water to make them easier to digest. I’m going to give that a try!

Nutrition and Supplementation

Nutrition and supplementation is covered next. It was very informative, and I appreciated the “Live Well Tips” in the section. I did not appreciate the author saying that organic foods are better quality than conventional because there are no significant differences (other than organic costs more). Also, the “dirty dozen” has been debunked.

Try this: Cucumber and avocado dip

Cucumber and Avocado Dip

Lifestyle Practices

The next section covers lifestyle practices. Saltrelli writes about managing stress which can be very helpful if you often feel overwhelmed regardless of gp symptoms. The section after that is titled “Life with Gastroparesis.” Eating together is one of the main forms we use to socialize. Saltrelli provides advice on how to maintain friendships and still socialize when you have gastroparesis. The next section is about coping and attitude. Saltrelli discusses accepting gastroparesis and finding a silver lining.

Read more: Living with Gastroparesis: an Introduction to my Diagnosis

Gastroparesis Friendly Recipes

Finally, the book concludes with gastroparesis friendly recipes from pancakes to potato dill soup. I can’t wait to try some of them. The recipes are my most favorite part of the book.

Overall, Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis is a good introductory book on gastroparesis.  Those newly diagnosed or struggling with how and what to eat would find it most helpful. I wasn’t a fan of the push for organic over conventional and it does subtract from my overall opinion of the book. I did learn a few new things and Saltrelli serves a good guide for living well with gastroparesis, but she, and this book, shouldn’t be your only guide.

Did you find my Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis book review helpful?  Let me know in the comments!

If you’d like to check out Living (Well!) with Gastroparesis for yourself, purchase it here: