This topic is about dealing with constant hunger after colostomy surgery. The person who shared their experience is about 6 to 7 months post-surgery and is experiencing intense hunger shortly after eating, which is causing stomach pain. They had been unwell for several years before the surgery and are now trying to understand if their hunger is due to dietary choices, a need for supplements, or something else. They are seeking advice from others who might have faced similar issues.
Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:
1. Try to include more protein in each meal. Good sources of protein are meat, fish, eggs, legumes like lentils and chickpeas, peanut butter, nuts, and seeds. Protein can help reduce feelings of hunger.
2. Consider following a high-protein, low-carbohydrate, and low-residue diet. Many people find that reducing fiber helps prevent discomfort and excessive output.
3. Add small amounts of healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts, to your meals. These can help slow down stomach emptying and keep you feeling full longer.
4. Limit simple and refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugar. Instead, choose complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, oatmeal, farro, and brown rice, which digest more slowly and help you stay full.
5. If rapid transit is causing your hunger, meals that are mostly liquids or simple carbs may pass through your system quickly. Including proteins and fats in your meals can help delay this process.
6. Keep an eye on your weight, urine color and frequency, and use the skin-turgor "pinch test" to check your hydration and overall intake.
7. Since high output can affect nutrient absorption, consider asking for a full micronutrient panel to check your levels.
8. Consult a registered dietitian who specializes in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or intestinal surgery. Some dietitians may focus more on diabetes, so it's important to find one who understands ostomy needs. You can ask for referrals from your gastroenterologist, stoma nurse, or TPN service.
9. Understand that it can take months or even years for your bowels to adapt after major surgery. The persistent hunger may decrease as your digestive system stabilizes.
10. Be mindful of consuming too many calories, as this could lead to unwanted weight gain and potential secondary issues like diabetes.
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