Dietary principles in the treatment of gastro-intestinal diseases

Conclusion

1. In gastro-intestinal diseases a diet, while essentially prescribed for the purpose of nourishing a patient, must be modified to conform to the required mechanical, chemical and physiological indications.

2. Every diet, and preferably each meal, must contain a proper balance of essential ingredients, a sufficient vitamin and mineral supply, adequate amounts of water, and, unless contraindicated, considerable indigestible residue.

3. The purposes of the diet should be explained to the patient and every detail should be given to him in writing so that misunderstandings or actual errors may be avoided.

4. Changes in the diet should be made only in accordance with certain definite indications, such as gain or loss in weight, variations in symptoms, allergic manifestations and when the causes for which the diet originally was prescribed no longer exist.