G-Tube Food Recipes
For many reasons, some children need a tube called a gastrostomy feeding tube (G-tube). A G-tube goes through the belly (abdominal) wall into the stomach.
During hospital stays, kids learn to use and clean their G-tubes. They also get used to standard commercial formula.
Clean around the G-tube site several times a day. Check for redness, swelling, drainage or crusting.
1. Peanut Butter Smoothie
This creamy peanut butter smoothie is an easy-to-make, nutrient-dense breakfast option for tube fed kids and adults. It is built on simple ingredients that many families already have on hand and tastes great even with a few mix-ins.
Frozen bananas provide a naturally sweet base that helps keep the smoothie thick without diluting the flavors. Greek yogurt adds a nice dose of protein to help sustain energy. Peanut butter adds a delicious flavor and plenty of healthy fats. Rolled oats bulk up the smoothie for a milkshake-like texture and also provide a bit of added fiber.
Try adding a handful of spinach or kale for a hidden veggie boost and more vitamin A, B6 and C. Chia seeds or ground flaxseed can add filling fiber and a dose of omega-3s.
2. Strawberry Smoothie
A strawberry smoothie is a delicious way to add some extra fruit into your child’s diet. It can also help them get used to the look and feel of food that is pushed through their gastrostomy tube (G-tube).
You can use any kind of milk in this recipe. Plain or flavored yogurt works well too. Add a pinch of sweetener to taste – we suggest using a natural sugar, such as stevia or monkfruit.
Be sure to add ice to the blender – it’s essential for creating that perfect creamy texture in a strawberry smoothie. This will help keep your child’s g-tube smoothie nice and cold! Add a splash of orange juice for extra sweetness and flavor. You can add other fruits like bananas, pineapple or mango if you wish (see the recipes). Add a pinch of mint for an herbaceous kick.
3. Lemon Smoothie
Lemons provide bright, fresh citrus flavor that’s a delicious complement to other sweet fruits. They’re also high in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and improve heart health.
This bright smoothie recipe uses a whole lemon – zest and juice – to provide natural sweetness without added sugars. It’s paired with antioxidant-rich berries, zippy kiwi and sugar-sweet mango for a refreshing drink that’s full of soluble fiber.
This nutrient-packed lemon smoothie is the perfect way to start your day. It’s dairy free, packed with plant based protein, and contains superfoods to energize your body for the day ahead.
4. Banana Smoothie
A banana smoothie is one of the easiest g-tube food recipes to make, and it can be made in any variety you like. Bananas can be roasted on a baking sheet in the oven before they are blended for extra flavor. You can add any type of milk, yogurt or ice cream. You can use a small amount of sugar for a sweeter drink, or skip the sugar completely and add a little vanilla, cinnamon, pineapple or oats to increase nutrition. You can use a blender or food processor for the smoothie. Makes 2 servings. Refrigerate leftovers. Serve with sliced banana on top, if desired.
5. Chocolate Smoothie
For children with a variety of medical conditions, the best way to receive nutrition is through a tube placed in their stomach. For many families, g-tube feeding is a long-term solution and requires a nutritionally complete diet.
Cook often blends cooked sweet potato, a can of sardines soaked in olive oil and an apple with 8 ounces of water for her son who is tube fed through a PEG tube (G-tube). She adds a scoop of chocolate protein powder to the smoothie to boost the nutritional value.
To make the Chocolate Smoothie, combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve in a glass and garnish with whipped cream or chocolate shavings.
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