An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a new opening in your abdomen to allow wastes to drain into a bag outside your abdomen. This procedure may be performed after abdominal infection, obstruction or cancer, among other conditions. If the opening drains from your colon, you have a colostomy. If it comes from your ileus -- the last section of your small intestine -- you have an ileostomy. Eating the right foods with an ostomy can help you maintain good health and prevent complications, such as uncomfortable gas and unpleasant odor.
Maintain Adequate Hydration
Step 1
Determine your weight in kilograms. To do this, divide your weight in pounds by 2.2. For example, if you weigh 150 lbs., your weight in kilograms is 68 kg.
Step 2
Multiply your weight in kilograms by 30 to 35 mL to determine the range of fluid you should consume each day. For example, if you multiply 68 kg by 30 mL, then by 35 mL, you get 2,040 to 2,380 mL.
Step 3
Consume additional fluids if the output from your ostomy exceeds the typical 200 to 600 mL per day.
Start with Low Fiber
Step 1
Consume white rice, and breads and pastas made from refined flour for the first two to three weeks as you recover after surgery.
Step 2
Cook vegetables well enough so you can mash them with a fork.
Step 3
Eat fruits without the peel.
Step 4
Eat bananas and applesauce to help thicken stools if you have diarrhea.
Gradually Increase Fiber
Step 1
Try higher fiber foods in small amounts as you recover, and note how you feel after eating them.
Step 2
Add whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, oats and brown rice.
Step 3
Try lightly steamed vegetables and soft fruits, such as grapes.
Limit Foods that Cause Gas and Odor
Step 1
Limit asparagus, onions and foods in the cabbage family, such as broccoli, cauliflower and brussels sprouts.
Step 2
Consume buttermilk, yogurt, kefir and cranberry juice to help prevent bad odors.
Step 3
Try new foods at home first to see how your body reacts to them. If a food bothers you, try a small amount again in two to three weeks to see if it still causes symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep a record of what you eat and how you feel afterward. Eat smaller meals more often. Consume your largest meals in the middle of the day to decrease stool output at night. Limit prune and grape juice, as these may contribute to diarrhea.
- If your colon has been removed and you have an ileostomy, you may be at risk for kidney stones. Limit foods that are high in oxalates, such as chocolate, nuts, beans and wheat germ to avoid the formation of stones.
Things You'll Need
- Calculator
- Notebook
References
- MedlinePlus; Ostomy; July 2011
- "Nutrition Care Manual"; Fluid Needs or Limits; American Dietetic Association; 2011
- American Dietetic Association: Colostomy Nutrition Therapy
- American Dietetic Association: Ileostomy Nutrition Therapy
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