Struggling With Diet And Ibs Post-colostomy

Struggling with Diet and IBS Post-Colostomy - Seeking Advice

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Dougie1

May 25, 2024 1:25 pm

Hi, I'm new here. I had an APR for bowel cancer, stage 1, so didn't require any treatment. However, I really struggle with my diet now as since having my colostomy, I just can't tolerate so many foods. Is this normal? Also, I have IBS, which prior to my surgery I controlled with a high-fiber diet, but obviously now I just can't have, and every 3/4 days my IBS flares up (once a day). Just wondering if anyone has the same problems or has any suggestions. I do a food diary, but there's no particular food which seems to cause it, but it's really getting me down, especially as I am waiting for an MRI scan as I have probably developed a perineal hernia, so my bottom is so uncomfortable. It has not been right since my surgery in December.

Thank you

Audrey Warren

May 25, 2024 2:34 pm

I struggled with IBS-C for five years. The thought of wearing a bag repulsed me. Finally, I opted for a colostomy and ironically it was the best choice.
I say ironically because I still have IBS but not the bloating and discomfort. Do you have IBS-D? That's another animal, but if it keeps you near a bathroom, talk with a rectal surgeon or WOC.
Message me if you have questions.

Good luck.

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Dougie1

May 25, 2024 3:01 pm

Thanks

Prior to my surgery, I had IBS-D but only occasionally, and I controlled this with a high-fiber diet. But since having my surgery, I just can't have fiber—my colostomy is just loose/diarrhea, so I just stick to low fiber. But my IBS happens once per day, every lunchtime, every 3/4 days 🤷‍♀️ no matter what I eat/avoid.

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ChrisP

May 25, 2024 4:49 pm

Hello, and welcome!

I may be asking a dim question, but why can you no longer have a high-fiber diet? I have had a colostomy for 20 years and have always stuck to a high-fiber diet over that period without problems.

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Dougie1

May 25, 2024 5:23 pm

I initially had a low-fiber diet after my surgery as recommended by my team, but after about 12 weeks, I started to try to introduce more fiber into my diet slowly, i.e., wholemeal bread, porridge, etc. My output from my stoma was just so loose, so I just stick to white bread, rice, pasta, etc. I feel my diet is so bland, but I am scared if I have more high fiber, my output will be affected. I know in theory with a colostomy I should be able to eat most foods, but I seem not able to. I am hoping eventually I can tolerate a bit more.

Struggling with Diet and IBS Post-Colostomy - Seeking Advice

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