What To Expect When Eating With A Stoma?

Adapting to your new life after a major operation takes time and patience. Undoubtedly, you will have to change certain aspects of your lifestyle, and if you have undergone bowel surgery, you will most definitely have to adapt to new eating habits.

Learning what you can eat or drink with a stoma will be difficult at first, however, give your body some time to adapt to its new circumstances. If you are wondering what you can expect whilst eating with a stoma, carry on reading, this is the article for you!

The Initial Weeks

During the first month, you will want to stick to bland foods because your body is still healing. Plain, low-fiber food will be easier to digest but remember to eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Drinking plenty of water is also essential, we recommend 8 ounces of liquid every day.

Foods that your initial diet should include are white bread, pasta, well-cooked and peeled vegetables, skinless poultry, eggs, and low-fat dairy.

Foods That Cause Odor And Gas

Some food or drinks can cause odor and gas to build up in your pouch. It's best to try these ingredients in small portions at home before you re-introduce them into your diet. If you are worried about any potential smells, simply keep some ostomy deodorant to hand. Live yogurt is another great solution to block odor and gas. Similarly, peppermint oil capsules work well to mask any unpleasant odors.

Foods to look out for include cabbage, spicy foods, cauliflower, onions, soda, fish, eggs, garlic, alcohol, and asparagus.

Foods That Cause Blockages

Some ingredients can swell in your bowel and cause a stoma blockage. Symptoms include abdomen pain, swelling of the stoma, nausea, a lack of stools, and even vomiting. If you think this may be happening to you, make sure to contact your doctor immediately. This type of blockage can typically be avoided by chewing your food with great care.

Foods to look out for include celery, nuts, mushrooms, raw fruit skins, raisins, popcorn, sweetcorn, and coconut.

Eating Out

Just because you have a stoma, doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a fantastic meal with friends or family at a restaurant. Have a look at the menu before you choose the place so that you can prepare ahead of time. Try to stick to foods you have already tried at home so you know how your body will react. Don’t be afraid to ask about the ingredients used.

Learning to eat with your new stoma may take some time, so don’t get frustrated if you experience some difficulties at first. Adapting to life after major surgery is certainly a learning curve and you can only take one day at a time. This is a great moment to change any dire eating habits and start eating healthily. Remember that chewing thoroughly is crucial when eating with a stoma. Most importantly, make sure your body receives all the nutrients and vitamins it needs.