Question: How can I gain weight as a vegetarian with an ileostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies for gaining weight with an ileostomy, particularly for vegetarians:
- Calorie-Dense Foods: Focus on high-calorie, nutrient-rich foods. Consider adding avocados, nuts, seeds, and nut butters to your meals. Use full-fat dairy products if tolerated, or alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.
- Frequent Meals: Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to increase your overall calorie intake without overwhelming your digestive system.
- Smoothies and Shakes: Incorporate calorie-dense smoothies or shakes into your diet. Blend fruits with nut butters, protein powders, and full-fat yogurt or milk alternatives.
- Protein Sources: As a vegetarian, ensure you are getting enough protein from sources like lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, and quinoa. Consider protein supplements if needed, but choose those that are gentle on the digestive system.
- Healthy Fats: Include healthy fats in your diet, such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, and ghee, to increase calorie intake.
- Digestive Support: Consider using digestive enzyme supplements to aid nutrient absorption if you experience rapid transit time.
- Professional Guidance: Work with a registered dietitian familiar with ostomies to create a personalized plan that meets your nutritional needs and addresses any specific dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Hydration and Electrolytes: Maintain proper hydration and consider electrolyte supplements to support overall health and nutrient absorption.
These strategies can help increase your calorie intake and support weight gain while managing an ileostomy.
Check out these links for more information:
- Need help gaining weight with an ileostomy/stoma? (July 05, 2016)
- Struggling to Gain Weight with an Ileostomy (March 23, 2025)
- Ileostomy and Struggling to Gain Weight: Any Advice? (October 08, 2024)
- Adjusting Diet After Ileostomy with Short Bowel Syndrome Concerns (April 14, 2010)
- Help! Need to Stop Weight Loss and Gain Back Pounds! (August 20, 2015)
- Seeking Tips for Weight Gain with Ileostomy and Bariatric Surgery (November 02, 2024)
- Struggling with Weight Gain after Iliostomy Surgery - Any Advice? (October 31, 2022)
- Weight Gain Challenges After Ileostomy? (April 17, 2011)
- How to gain weight after ileostomy? (September 17, 2013)
- Weight Loss After Colon Surgery and Ileostomy (July 16, 2009)
