Diet for Ostomy Patients

People with Ostomy always have the question in the initial phase “What can we eat”, “How often can we eat”. Meal, that was a source of enjoyment, now has become the source of confusion. They are unsure of which food to restrict to avoid trouble. Most people with Ostomy return to their normal diet soon after the operation. Many individuals with Ostomy can enjoy a normal diet within 6 weeks of surgery; however, food tolerances can vary from person to person.

Diet for Ostomy Patients

To support the need for specialized ostomy diets after stoma surgery an intense research has been done. Certain foods are more likely to cause gas, diarrhea, constipation, incomplete digestion or urine odor. But which ones have these effects will depend on your body.

Foods to avoid with an Ostomy

 Effects of food  Food Type
 Gas  Beans, carbonated beverages, asparagus, beer, broccoli, sprouts,   cabbage, cauliflower, peas, onions
 Thinned Stool  Grape juice, high-sugar foods, fried foods, spicy foods
 Thickened Stool  Applesauce, bananas, cheese, pasta, rice, peanut butter (creamy) and   potato (without skin)
 Incomplete  Digestion  Celery, apple peels, cabbage, coconut, corn, dried fruit, mushrooms,   nuts, pineapple, popcorn, seeds, skins from fruits and vegetables
 Increased odor  Alcohol, eggs, fish, asparagus, broccoli, dried beans, garlic, onions, and   peas
 Reduced odor  Buttermilk, cranberry juice, parsley, yogurt

Besides keeping a control on your diet, you can also opt for some ostomy accessories that can enhance your comfort. There are ostomy belts, deodorants, skin protectants, etc., each with its own specific benefit. Ostomy support belts hold up the ostomy bags and keep the collection bag, stoma and wafer concealed. Deodorants curb unpleasant and embarrassing odors associated with ostomy bags. Skin protectants form a protective layer between the skin and the adhesive to manage sore, irritated and dry skin
