While the prospect of having to live with an ileostomy, also called a colostomy, may be nightmarish, it is a reality for many people who have a damaged colon. When a person can't pass feces through the colon due to illness or injury, a surgeon must create an opening on the abdominal wall called a stoma that allows feces and waste material to pass. Ileostomy patients wear a lightweight bag over the stoma, and that allows the wearer to dispose of the waste on an everyday basis. When you have an ileostomy, it is best to avoid certain foods in your diet.
Cabbage, Lettuce And Celery
These are normally very healthy foods that help an individual with the digestion process. However, the roughage that these foods are noted for can cause severe problems for the ilelostomy patient. Cabbage, lettuce and celery are not fully digested and can block the opening in the stoma. If this happens, this can cause a backup that results in severe discomfort and pain. If the patient forgets and has lettuce or celery, he is advised to drink quite a bit of water to help dispose of the waste.
Fatty And Fried Foods
People who have an ileostomy should avoid all fried foods and meats that are heavy in fat. There are two reasons for this. Fatty and fried foods are often difficult to digest under the best of circumstances, and this can create blockages near the stoma. Additionally, these foods have a propensity to form gas. While the gas is understandable, it can be quite unpleasant for the individual with the ileostomy bag and those around him.
Whole Wheat Bread And Cereal
The roughage factor comes into play with whole wheat bread as well. While this is normally a food that will help an individual become more regular, it can cause severe problems for someone who has had an ileostomy. The whole wheat bread may not get digested fully, and that may result in a blockage near the stoma. As a result, whole wheat bread and cereals that feature wheat should be avoided.
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