DIET IN DIFFERENT MEDICAL CONDITION| NUTRITION & DIETETICS|L-21

There are many medical conditions that require a special diet. Some examples of conditions that may require a special diet include:

Diabetes: People with diabetes need to follow a diet that is low in carbohydrates, sugar, and fat to help manage their blood sugar levels.

High blood pressure: A diet low in sodium can help manage high blood pressure.

Celiac disease: People with celiac disease must follow a gluten-free diet to avoid damage to their small intestine.

Food allergies: People with food allergies must avoid the foods they are allergic to.

Gout: A diet low in purines can help manage gout.

Kidney disease: People with kidney disease may need to limit their intake of protein, sodium, and potassium.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): People with IBS may need to follow a low FODMAP diet to avoid triggering symptoms. FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. These are short-chain carbohydrates and sugar alcohols that are not well-absorbed in the small intestine and can cause digestive discomfort in some people, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Here are some examples of high FODMAP foods that may need to be avoided or limited on a low FODMAP diet:

Oligosaccharides: Wheat, rye, onions, garlic, legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas), and some fruits (apples, pears).

Disaccharides: Lactose-containing dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and soft cheeses.

Monosaccharides: Fructose-containing foods such as honey, apples, pears, mangoes, and agave nectar.

Polyols: Sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol found in some fruits (peaches, plums, cherries), artificial sweeteners, and some vegetables (cauliflower, mushrooms, snow peas).

Heart disease: A diet low in saturated and trans fats, and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help manage heart disease.

Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): People with acid reflux or GERD may need to avoid foods that trigger symptoms, such as spicy or acidic foods.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): People with IBD, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, may need to follow a low-fiber diet during periods of flare-ups.

Gallbladder disease: People with gallbladder disease may need to avoid high-fat foods to prevent gallbladder attacks.

Cancer: Some types of cancer, such as head and neck cancers, may require a soft or liquid diet to make eating easier during treatment.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A diet low in refined carbohydrates and high in fiber can help manage PCOS symptoms.

Phenylketonuria (PKU): People with PKU have a genetic disorder that makes it difficult for them to break down an amino acid called phenylalanine. They need to follow a low-protein diet that is also low in phenylalanine to prevent brain damage.

Multiple sclerosis (MS): Some people with MS may benefit from a diet low in saturated and trans fats and high in omega-3 fatty acids to help manage symptoms.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): People with COPD may need to eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid foods that cause gas or bloating to make it easier to breathe.

Epilepsy: Some people with epilepsy may benefit from a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet called the ketogenic diet to help control seizures.

Liver disease: People with liver disease may need to avoid or limit certain foods, such as high-fat or processed foods, to help manage their condition.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD): Some people with ASD may benefit from a gluten-free and casein-free diet to help manage behavioral symptoms.

HIV/AIDS: People with HIV/AIDS may need to follow a diet that is high in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent muscle loss.

Gastrointestinal disorders: Certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroparesis or dumping syndrome, may require a special diet that includes smaller, more frequent meals and a focus on low-fiber, low-fat, and low-sugar foods.