Understanding the Colostomy Diet

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the abdomen (called a “stoma”) to divert the flow of stool. This adjustment can significantly impact your diet, as the foods and drinks you may want to consume to maintain comfort and health can change. Adapting to changes in daily routines, including dietary habits, can take some time, but many people worldwide have done so successfully.

What is a Colostomy Diet?

A colostomy diet refers to the dietary guidelines recommended for individuals who have undergone colostomy surgery. The primary goal of this diet is to manage digestive health while ensuring proper nutrition. Understanding which foods to consume and which to exclude can help prevent complications and promote overall well-being.

What to Eat After Colostomy Surgery

Immediately following your colostomy surgery, follow your healthcare provider's advice on what you should and shouldn’t eat. It's very important to follow a gradual approach to reintroducing foods into your diet. Here are some general guidelines:

• Give Your Appetite Some Time to Return: According to the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA), it may take up to 6 weeks for your appetite to come back.

• Follow a Low-Fiber Diet: Initially, opt for foods that are low in fiber. High-fiber foods can be more challenging for your body to digest shortly after surgery. Examples of low-fiber foods include eggs, well-cooked vegetables without skin, white rice, tofu, tender meats, fish and poultry.

• Slowly Introduce Foods with More Fiber: As you heal, gradually introduce foods with more fiber into your diet. These may include whole grains (like brown rice and oats) and certain fruits and vegetables. Add one new food every few days to see how your body responds.

• Identify Trigger Foods: Consider keeping a diary of foods that cause gas, odor, diarrhea or digestive discomfort. If a particular food triggers symptoms, avoid it for 2 to 3 weeks before trying it again in a smaller amount to evaluate tolerance. Additionally, avoid the use of straws that cause gas.

Tips for Managing Digestive Symptoms

Always consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns or if you’re considering a change to your diet. Here are some general tips on managing common digestive issues following your colostomy surgery.

Reducing Gas and Preventing Odors:

• Avoid straws, carbonated beverages, chewing gum, smoking and overly sugary foods as these can increase gas production.

• Limit consumption of beans, fruit and vegetable skins, garlic, onions, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, and alcohol. Consider discussing a low-FODMAP* diet with your healthcare provider.

• *FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols. FODMAPs are types of carbohydrates found in certain foods, including wheat, fruit, dairy, beans and sweeteners. 

Preventing Diarrhea:

• Avoid spicy, fried, overly greasy foods and foods high in sugar.

• Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.

• Consider lactose-free options if dairy products cause digestive symptoms.

• Incorporate foods that naturally thicken stool, such as bananas, applesauce, white rice, pasta and potatoes.

Key Considerations for a Colostomy Diet

After you've recovered following your surgery and adjusted to life with a stoma, your diet can be more varied.

1. High Fiber Foods: Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, are generally beneficial for digestive health. However, some high-fiber foods may cause increased gas production. It is essential to introduce fiber gradually and monitor how your body responds. Always speak to your doctor or stoma nurse if you have any concerns.

2. Hydration: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining normal bowel function. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day is recommended. Be mindful of beverages that may cause excessive gas, such as caffeinated, carbonated, sugary or alcoholic drinks.

Additional Colostomy Diet Tips:

• Eat Mindfully: Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to aid digestion.

• Opt for Smaller Meals: Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals to manage digestion more effectively.

• Establish Routine: Maintain a consistent schedule for meals and snacks to regulate bowel function.

Adapting to Your Colostomy Diet

It is strongly advised that you adjust to a colostomy diet through a gradual process of trial and observation. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can provide guidance based on your specific needs and condition.

By following dietary recommendations, including incorporating high-fiber foods cautiously, staying hydrated, opting for low-residue options when necessary and identifying and avoiding problematic foods, you can successfully navigate life with a colostomy and maintain a healthy varied diet.

Coloplast Care

Coloplast has a support program called Coloplast Care that offers advice and personalized support from a dedicated care advisor.

References:

1. Michońska I, Polak-Szczybyło E, Sokal A, Jarmakiewicz-Czaja S, Stępień AE, Dereń K. Nutritional Issues Faced by Patients with Intestinal Stoma: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med. 2023 Jan 8;12(2):510. doi: 10.3390/jcm12020510. PMID: 36675439; PMCID: PMC9862496.

2. The United Ostomy Associations of America. (2024). 'Eating with an Ostomy'. Retrieved from https://www.ostomy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Eating_with_an_Ostomy_2022-02.pdf.