Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Heightened Nausea and Gastric Issues in Gastroparesis Patients: Study

The study revealed the following findings:

• Vitamin D levels were low (< 30 ng/ml) in 56.1% of patients with symptoms of Gp (54.8% of patients with delayed gastric emptying (Gp) and 59.9% of patients with symptoms of Gp and normal gastric emptying).
• Low vitamin D levels were associated with increased nausea and vomiting but not fullness or bloating subscores.
• Low vitamin D levels in patients with Gp were associated with greater meal retention at four hours (36% retention) compared with Gp patients with normal vitamin D levels (31% retention).
• Low vitamin D in patients with normal gastric emptying was associated with decreased normal 3 cpm GMA before and increased tachygastria after WLST.

"This study establishes a foundation for further research into vitamin D supplementation in patients with gastroparesis who exhibit low vitamin D levels. Future investigations should explore whether replenishing vitamin D can improve gastric neuromuscular function and alleviate gastroparesis symptoms. In the interim, we recommend evaluating vitamin D levels in patients with gastroparesis and administering vitamin D supplements if a deficiency is found." the researchers concluded.

Reference:

Koch, K.L., Parkman, H.P., Yates, K.P. et al. Low Vitamin D Levels in Patients with Symptoms of Gastroparesis: Relationships with Nausea and Vomiting, Gastric Emptying and Gastric Myoelectrical Activity. Dig Dis Sci (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-024-08520-8