OSTOMY DIET (Part 1): The first 4-6 weeks post op.
I followed a very strict diet after having my colon removed. I was maybe more careful than I needed to be. For reference, I have an ileostomy and Crohn’s Disease. Different chronic illnesses, and ostomy types will determine specific diet modifications.
It is so important to stay hydrated after surgery. Depending on how much of your intestines have been removed will determine on how well your body absorbs liquids. I started carrying, (and still do 2.5 years later), a bottle of Vitamin Water with me EVERYWHERE. Dehydration can cause a lot of problems, so this is the number one diet modification I made post op. Even if you do not feel thirsty, I recommend sipping on something all day!
Many foods can risk causing a blockage. I was advised to stick to a low residue diet for 4-6 weeks. I ate a LOT of potatoes, pasta, bread, etc. I stayed away from hard to digest foods such as: raw fruits and vegetables, thick peeling (like on apples even if they were cooked), seeds, etc.
Lastly, the best piece of advice I can give for any ostomate is CHEW your food well. Be intentionally about chewing everything more than you feel you should before you swallow. Keep a food journal. Track how certain foods affect your output.
I hope this video helps give you ideas on things that might work for your diet right after surgery!
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PEACE & BLESSINGS.
