Colostomy Patients' Diet

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening from your colon, or large intestine, to the outside of your body. Waste from your colon then drains into a bag attached to the outside of your stomach. This procedure is performed after an abdominal infection, obstruction, cancer and other conditions. Eating the right foods after a colostomy can help prevent complications such as uncomfortable gas, unpleasant odor, and bowel obstruction.

Maintaining Hydration

Your doctor will prescribe a clear liquid diet while you are still in the hospital to ensure that you are able to tolerate oral intake. It is very important that you consume adequate fluid, especially once you begin to eat solid foods. The average adult should consume between 30 to 35 milliliters of fluid per kilogram of body weight daily, according to the American Dietetic Association. You may need more fluid if output from your colostomy exceeds the typical 200 to 600 mL daily.

Starting with Low Fiber

Once you are on solid foods, for the first 2 to 3 weeks of your recovery period, you should only eat foods low in fiber. Consume white rice, and breads and pastas made from refined flour. Choose well-cooked vegetables, fruits without the peel and some fruit juices. Prune and grape juices may contribute to diarrhea, so limit these. Gradually add more fiber, such as whole grains, to your diet as you can handle them.

Controlling Gas and Odor

Some foods may increase gas and discomfort, and contribute to embarrassing odor. If you choose to eat these foods, try them at home first. Limit asparagus, onions and foods in the cabbage family, such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Fish and eggs may cause odor in some people. Buttermilk, yogurt, kefir and cranberry juice may help prevent bad odors.

Preventing Obstruction

Consume adequate fluid to help prevent bowel obstruction, which can occur as a result of hard stools that are unable to pass through your colostomy. Starting with a low fiber diet and adding fiber to your diet gradually, may also help. You should be able to return to a regular diet within about 6 weeks.

Preventing Diarrhea

Some foods may contribute to loose stools. If you are lactose intolerant, try lactose-free milk and dairy products. If you find that a particular food causes loose stools, try it again in 2 to 3 weeks. You may tolerate it as you heal from surgery. Foods that may thicken runny stool include bananas, applesauce, potatoes, cheese and peanut butter.