An ostomy is the surgical opening, or stoma, that is created in the abdomen when all or part of the intestine or bladder is removed or rested because of disease or injury. The opening allows body wastes to be eliminated from the body. Although ostomy surgery does not interfere with eating or enjoyment of food for most people, you will need to avoid foods that may cause a blockage or produce gas or odors.
Types of Ostomies
There are three types of ostomy surgeries that can be performed: ileostomy, colostomy and urostomy. In an ileostomy, the entire large intestine or colon is rested or removed. The colostomy involves removal of only part of the intestine. A urostomy is performed when the urinary bladder is removed, other ostomies can lead to dietary issues, at least temporarily. Your physician will provide you with dietary suggestions and cautions.
Drink Plenty of Liquids
All ostomy patients typically lose more liquids than normal after surgery. That's why it's very important to drink a lot of fluids during the day to avoid becoming dehydrated. Dehydration can be more of a problem for ileostomy patients than for colostomy patients.
Avoid Foods and Practices that Produce Gas
Some gas is normal, but you can avoid producing excess gas by reducing or, if necessary, eliminating nuts, onions, beer, fish, melons, legumes, cabbage and Brussels sprouts, milk sweets, cruciform vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower and high-fiber foods. Regular eating habits are important; don't skip meals and eat at least three times a day.
Prevent Constipation
Chew your foods very well, particularly if you have an ileostomy, to avoid constipation or plugging the stoma. Eat low-fiber cereals and vegetables, white bread, crackers, pasta and rice. Drink plenty of liquids and exercise regularly and often. Add new foods slowly and one-at-a-time. If you suspect a food is causing you problems, leave it out of your diet for a few weeks and then try it again.
Reduce Odor
Not all ostomy patients will have an odor problem, but if you do, eliminate or reduce foods such as fish, beer, melons, cruciform vegetables, sodas, onions, milk, cucumbers, nuts and legumes such as peas and beans. You can also cut down on odor problems by having one rather than several of these foods at any one meal.
Eliminate Diarrhea
Avoid excess fluid loss from diarrhea by reducing or eliminating foods such as beans, broccoli, hot beverages and soups, prune juice, large meals, spicy dishes, beans, chocolate, and alcoholic beverages such as red wine and beer. Emotional upsets, flu, travel and impure water can also trigger diarrhea. Foods like applesauce, boiled milk, peanut butter, tapioca, bananas, rice and weak tea can help replace fluids and produce a firmer stool. Maintain your potassium and sodium levels by eating red meats, fruits and vegetables regularly.
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