Simple Dietary Guidance for Ostomates

Giving diet advice for people with a stoma can be tricky because there are different types of stomas, and diet needs can vary after bowel surgery. Some people may need to change their diet temporarily, while others might need long-term adjustments.

It's important to know that not everyone with a stoma needs to change their diet after surgery. This guide offers helpful tips and advice for stoma users, but always talk to your doctor, specialist nurse, or a dietician before making any dietary changes.
 
Eating Well with a Stoma

Helpful Tip 1 – Always ask your stoma care nurse for advice on foods to avoid and for recommendations on what works best for your situation.

Helpful Tip 2 – Learn which foods make you constipated or act as laxatives and find a balance. Some foods cause gas while others cause diahrrea—figure out which ones and eat them in moderation.

Potential Foods to Avoid – 

• Caffeinated drinks (like coffee, tea, energy drinks, and cola) can make your bowel work faster, thereby causing your food to pass through your digestive system more quickly, which might not be ideal.
• Spicy foods and meals high in fat can irritate sensitive bowels. Opting for low-fat meals or smaller portions of rich foods can help reduce symptoms.
• Some foods can be hard to digest and might cause blockages, such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, mushrooms, dried fruit and raw, crunchy vegetables. If you want to eat these, start with small amounts, chew your food thoroughly, and drink plenty of water to help digestion. 
  

This will allow you to isolate potential foods that might be causing problems.

Helpful Tip 4 – Introduce new foods slowly.

Start with small portions to see how your body reacts. Have at least 3 meals a day, and stick to regular meal times when possible.
 
Low-Fiber Diet After Surgery
While a typical "healthy diet" is high in fiber, low in salt, and low in fat, this might not work well for stoma users, especially shortly after surgery. In the first 6-8 weeks, the gut can be extra sensitive, leading to symptoms like:

• Cramping
• Bloating
• Loose stools
• Increased urine output
  

Following a low-fiber diet during this period can help ease these symptoms.

Helpful Tip 5 – Consider Low-Fiber Food Swaps

Here are some easy swaps to reduce fiber in your diet:

• Switch whole-meal bread to white bread.
• Replace brown pasta and rice with white pasta and rice.
• Choose soft fruits without skin (like bananas, strawberries, or melon) instead of fibrous fruits like rhubarb, pineapple, or dates.
  

While a low-fiber diet can be helpful right after surgery, there's no strong evidence that it's necessary long-term for those with colostomies, ileostomies, or urostomies. Always consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Related reading: 7 Types of Ostomy Bags to Use After Surgery 

By making small adjustments and listening to your body, you can find a diet that works well for you and keeps you feeling your best.

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Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice, please speak with your healthcare provider. 

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