An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the body for discharge of waste. It can be placed in the large intestines (colostomy), the small intestines (ileostomy) or the bladder (urostomy). After surgery, you must understand how foods will affect output. According to the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA), tolerance to food is trial and error and should be individualized. UOAA suggests re-introducing foods slowly and monitoring the effects on ostomy output and function. UOAA says anyone with an ileosomy or colostomy should be able to resume a regular diet. People with urostomies do not need to follow special diets, but drinking plenty of fluids is recommended.
Food Blockage
Blockage is more likely to occur with an ostomy in the small intestines because the opening is narrow. Undigested fibrous foods build up and block the exit. Children's Hospital of Boston recommends calling your doctor if you have abdominal pain; limited stool output for more than 4 hours; large, foul-smelling stool output; poor appetite; irritability; or nausea and vomiting. Foods that can cause blockage include celery, raw Chinese vegetables, coleslaw, corn, dried fruits, hot dogs, sausage, kielbasa, nuts, peas, pineapple, popcorn, raisins, oranges, mushrooms, coconut, apple skins and seeds.
Odor-Causing Foods
The UOAA says an ostomy significantly changes appearance and function, and it can affect body image and self-esteem. Someone with an ostomy can experience embarrassing, unpleasant odors related to certain foods. These foods include asparagus, beans, brussel sprouts, cabbage, coffee, cucumbers, eggs, fish, garlic, green peppers, milk, onions, prunes, radishes, turnips, vitamins, cod liver oil, strong cheese and peanut butter. The UOAA suggests consuming foods to counteract odors, such as buttermilk, cranberry juice, orange juice, parsley, tomato juice and yogurt.
Gas-Causing Foods
Abdominal pain, bloating, and gas are exacerbated by certain foods, including raw apples, asparagus, beans, broccoli, cabbage, carbonated beverages, cauliflower, corn, cucumbers, dairy products, eggs, melon, mushrooms, nuts, onions, melons, peas, spicy food, spinach, alcohol and radishes. Chewing gum also can cause gas. Anyone with an ostomy should avoid gas-causing foods to limit discomfort.
Member Comments
Filmmy April 20
My son has an ileostomy due to Crohn's disease. Every food listed for "odor" and "gas" are all potential dangerous obstructions for an ostomy patient!. His diet consists of meat and some sort of starch. He cannot eat ANY food that is vegetable or fruit in nature, except potato. Obstructions can be life threatening because the bowel can leak from internal pressure and even rupture from obstruction.