This topic is about adjusting your diet after ostomy surgery. It shares personal experiences and practical advice on what foods to enjoy and which ones to avoid to maintain comfort and health.
- After ostomy surgery, many people find they can still enjoy most of their favorite foods. However, it's important to avoid foods that might cause blockages due to undigested particles. Some common foods to avoid include nuts, coconut, popcorn, and foods with hard shells or peels. Raw carrots should be liquefied or puréed, and sprouts are best avoided.
- Some people find that they can eat foods they previously had to avoid, like spicy dishes or apples with peel, once the problematic part of the intestine is bypassed or removed. However, everyone's tolerance is different, so it's important to pay attention to your body's reactions.
- Foods that often cause problems include raw pineapple, very fibrous items like whole-wheat products and refried beans, and large amounts of lettuce.
- A key piece of advice is to chew your food thoroughly. This simple step can help prevent obstructions and abdominal pain.
- Eating slowly and taking the time to sit down for at least one relaxed meal a day can help reduce cramping and improve nutrient absorption.
- To minimize gas and discomfort, you might consider taking an enzyme supplement like "Beano" before eating foods that could cause issues.
- If you experience fast transit times, some people find that doctor-prescribed codeine can help slow things down, aiding in better nutrient and calorie absorption.
- It's common to experience some weight gain after surgery, which is often seen as a normal trade-off for being able to eat without pain.
- The best approach is trial and error. Introduce new or previously restricted foods in small amounts, keep track of what works and what doesn't, and adjust your personal list of safe and avoid foods accordingly.
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