Of all the challenges an ostomy patient has to face, the last thing you want to be anxious about is the food you eat. Thankfully, your diet is largely under your discretion. By being aware of the foods you eat and the lifestyle choices you make, you can take control of the situation and move forward with your life.
Types of Ostomies
According to the United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc., an ostomy is a surgically created alternative site for the elimination of body waste. When part of the colon or the rectum needs to be surgically removed due to injury or disease, a colostomy is done. This can be permanent or temporary, depending on the medical situation. An ileostomy is a similarly created opening at the end of the last segment of the small intestine, or ileum. When people refer to the stoma, they are speaking of the actual portion of the small or large bowel that is open to the outside of the body, but not the procedure itself.
Features of an Ostomy Diet
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has general overall recommendations for ostomy patients. They suggest small, frequent regular meals, keeping your weight well managed and trying new foods one at a time to determine if a particular food is going to cause problems. They also recommend staying hydrated and chewing your food well to avoid complications.
Types of Foods That Can Cause Problems
You can eat anything you ate before the ostomy, but you may prefer to make some changes for your own personal comfort. Nutrition experts at the Mayo Clinic suggest being observant of more-difficult-to-digest high-fiber fruits and vegetables such as celery, mango and pineapple as well as dried fruits, nuts and seeds. In large amounts, these foods can bunch up and cause a blockage, particularly if your physician has told you that you have multiple adhesions from intestinal procedures. Avoiding both straws and chewing gum will reduce the amount of air you swallow and decrease gas production. Certain foods such as alcohol, fish, broccoli, onions, cabbage, baked beans and certain kinds of cheese can contribute to elimination odors. Limit them only if they cause you problems. Yogurt, cranberry juice, parsley and buttermilk can reduce these odors, so include them in your diet every day.
Prevention of Constipation or Diarrhea
Relieving constipation and diarrhea with an ostomy is similar to doing so without one. Mild constipation can be relieved by including fiber foods and supplements, exercising and increasing fluid intake. According to the University of Pittsburgh, diarrhea sometimes is related to your diet, but it also can be due to the location of your ostomy on the digestive tract. The shorter your gastrointestinal tract is, the looser your stools will be. Adding foods like beer, baked beans, red wine, prune juice, hot beverages, highly spiced foods and large meals can also contribute to diarrhea. Remember, if the food gave you digestive problems before, it probably still will, so anticipate it. Benefiber and banana flakes can be helpful in managing diarrhea.
Special Considerations for Ileostomy Patients
Fluids and minerals are special concerns for you because you no longer have a colon to re-absorb these nutrients. Include fluids that contain electrolytes such as sports drinks along with foods high in potassium and sodium. Foods rich in potassium are generally whole foods, including many fruits and vegetables. Most convenience foods are high in sodium, but you can also consider adding salt at the table or in cooking. Speak with your physician if you are currently on a diet that restricts any of these nutrients.
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