Don't Miss Out
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 Hi, there! It's been a while since the last newsletter, so I've packed as much as possible into this issue.
It's officially summertime and I'm looking forward to
slowing down and relaxing a bit. How about you? If you have summer vacation plans, check out the tips for managing gastroparesis while traveling.
Then keep reading for the updated results of my gastroparesis patient survey, news about my Oprah audition(!), and info about a group program for GPers.
As always, I welcome and look forward to your feedback and questions.
Take care,
Crystal
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Managing Gastroparesis While Traveling
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| For those of us with digestive disorders, figuring out what to eat at home can be difficult enough; traveling often seems impossible. However, there are some steps you can take to minimize frustration and flare-ups while on the road.
- As much as possible, stick to your regular routine in terms of what, when and how you eat. Unless you're prepared to deal with a possible flare-up, this is not the time to experiment. If you usually keep a food journal (something I highly recommend), continue to do so.
- Regardless of how you're traveling, always bring plenty of your own food. Never assume there will be safe options along the way. A small cooler can be helpful for transporting meal replacement drinks, yogurt, cheese sticks, etc. [If you are traveling by plane, call the airline to inquire about the current rules for bringing liquids on board.]
- If you rely on smoothies or protein shakes, invest in a small, packable blender, such as a Magic Bullet, to use when you reach your destination.
- Before you leave, make a list of common foods that you know you can eat (i.e. grilled chicken, broiled fish, baked potatoes, chicken noodle soup, rice, etc.). When dining at restaurants, order from your own list to lessen feelings of frustration, confusion and deprivation.
- Try to get some physical activity after meals. Many people find that walking helps to alleviate symptoms and improve digestion. It's also a great way to explore your vacation destination!
- Because traveling can be stressful and stress further impairs digestion, it's especially important to take a few minutes just to breathe and relax before and after you eat.
- While the limitations and demands of gastroparesis can seem overwhelming, especially while on vacation, try to focus on all of the things you *can* do. Having fun, laughing, and enjoying the company of your travel companions can only make you feel better!
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Gastroparesis Survey: Updated Results
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| Last fall, I started a gastroparesis patient survey and posted the initial findings in December. Since then another
70+ fantastic GPers have added their input, so I've created an updated version of the results
(14 pages, complete with charts, graphs, and your advice in your own
words!).
While it's not in any way a scientific survey, I do think it's
a great opportunity to learn from each other, gather information, and
share ideas. Thanks to all of those who took the time to answer the questions and share their experiences!
Click here to view the results and read my reflections.
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I Need Your Help to Win My "OWN" Show
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| | I'm currently auditioning for "Your OWN Show: Oprah's Search for the Next TV
Star." How cool is that?! My goal is two-fold. First, to help
Americans take control of their health and look, live and feel their
best. Second, to increase awareness of gastroparesis.
Want to help me? Visit www.VoteForCrystal.com
to see my video and vote! You can vote as many times as you'd like. Feel free to pass the
link along to friends and/or post it on your social media pages. Thanks for your support!
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Living (Well!) With GP Group Program
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| Want to learn to better manage your diet and lifestyle while interacting with other gastroparesis patients? If you're interested in being part of a phone-based group health counseling program for GPers, please email me for more info.
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