An ileostomy is a small opening from your ileum, the lowest section of your small intestines, to the outside of your belly, to be used as a way for your body to eliminate waste. You may need an ileostomy if you have had all or part of your colon or rectum removed or if your large intestines need to rest following surgery. To prevent blockage of the opening, or stoma, you need to avoid eating certain types of foods following the placement of the ileostomy.
Diet Guidelines
The goal of the ileostomy diet is to prevent blockage and reduce overall stool output. To prevent blockage and reduce output, you need to limit your intake of fiber. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate your body cannot digest, which adds bulk to stool. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes are the primary sources of fiber in the diet. Limiting your intake of these types of foods will help limit your intake of fiber, reducing stool output and lowering your risk of blockage.
Fruits
Avoid all raw fruits and canned fruits with skins or seeds following your ileostomy surgery. Examples include apples, apricots, berries, cherries, fresh pineapple, peaches and grapes. In addition, you should also avoid all dried fruits including raisins, prunes, figs and dates. Fruits such as oranges, grapefruits and dried fruits are more likely to cause blockage, according to the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition.
Vegetables
Avoid all raw vegetables on your ileostomy diet. Examples include salad greens, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprout, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, green beans and peas. Celery, salad, raw carrots and coleslaw are more likely to cause blockage. Because eliminating raw fruits and vegetables can make it difficult for you to meet your nutrient needs, include soft, cooked vegetables and canned fruits without skins and seeds.
Milk
You should be able to consume most milk products on your ileostomy diet. Milk products to avoid include cheese with added nuts or seeds and yogurt with nuts, seeds or fruit skin.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
To limit risk of blockage and output of your ileostomy, also avoid tough, fibrous meats, chunky peanut butter, peas, lentils and meats in casings such as hot dogs and sausage.
Breads and Starches
Breads and starches are also a source of fiber. To limit your intake, avoid breads, rolls and crackers with seeds, bran, nuts or coconut. You should also avoid foods labeled as whole grain or high fiber and cereals that contain raisins, bran or nuts. Also avoid potato skin, brown rice, wild rice, whole-wheat pasta and popcorn.
Other Foods
Avoid soups and pizza containing any of the aforementioned vegetables. Also eliminate any desserts containing nuts, seeds, dried fruit, coconut, marmalade, jam or preserves. Also avoid olives and pickles.
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