An ostomy is a surgical opening in your body, usually in your abdomen, designed to remove wastes that your body cannot readily remove. Typically, the surgeon brings a portion of the intestines through the ostomy to create a drainage site, called a stoma. The stoma is covered with a pouch to collect wastes. Following correct dietary guidelines can help make living with an ostomy an easier experience.
Blockage Prevention
Although you may have few dietary restrictions after ostomy surgery, consuming certain foods that cannot be completely digested may cause stoma blockages. High-fiber foods such as walnuts, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, pistachios and popcorn may contribute to blockages. Other foods that commonly cause blockages include pineapple, dried fruits, mushrooms and celery. Eliminating these foods is typically not necessary. However, limit your intake of these foods if you notice reduced waste output.
Potassium and Sodium Maintenance
Potassium and sodium are minerals that help regulate fluid balance in your body. If you have an ostomy, you may lose these minerals through waste output. Adding foods containing these minerals can help prevent deficiency. Most meats, including beef, pork, veal, lamb, fish and turkey, are rich sources of potassium. This mineral is also found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as apricots, bananas, avocados, green beans, cherries and peppers. Table salt is the most common source of sodium. However, this mineral is also found in foods such as pretzels, tomato juice and peanut butter.
Hydration and Odor Control
Waste output through your stoma may lead to dehydration. Drinking eight to 10 glasses of filtered water per day can help prevent dehydration, as can drinking other non-caffeinated beverages, such as cranberry juice, apple juice and decaffeinated tea. Water and cranberry juice may also help decrease the odor of wastes removed from your body through your stoma.
Gas Control
Gas is a common concern among people living with ostomies -- if it cannot escape from your body, it can cause bloating and abdominal discomfort. Consuming certain foods, such as broccoli, beer, onions, cauliflower, cabbage, beans, Brussels sprouts and soft drinks may increase gas. You may not need to eliminate these foods, but limit your intake if you experience difficulties with excess gas. Also, avoid skipping meals -- this may increase gas.
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