This topic is about someone who has an ileostomy and is cautious about trying new foods due to a past experience with a painful bowel obstruction. They are particularly interested in trying strawberry yogurt but are concerned about the potential for blockages caused by seeds or fruit pieces. Here are some helpful insights and advice for anyone in a similar situation:
- The person discovered that Oikos strawberry-flavored yogurt does not contain real fruit pieces, which made it safe for them to try. They tolerated it well.
- They have a history of a severe blockage that required hospitalization, so they are understandably cautious. The blockage might have been caused by a rice-broccoli-cheese dish or peeled raw apples, but the exact cause was never confirmed.
- Red food dye can cause issues for them, so they look for strawberry products without dye and with low sugar content, like Gfit drinks.
- They use a juicer to enjoy flavors they can't safely eat whole, such as carrot juice, pineapple juice, or V8, but they dislike wasting the pulp.
- Chickpea pasta was successfully tried in a very small portion, and they avoid foods like onions that pass through the stoma undigested.
- They are curious about trying new foods but fear another blockage that could lead to major surgery.
Here are some general tips for trying new foods safely:
1. Strain foods with seeds or small bits through a fine mesh strainer to enjoy the flavor without risky particles.
2. Introduce new foods in very small amounts and, if tolerated, slowly increase the portion size. Experimenting and moderation are key.
3. Keep a food diary and try any single food at least three times before deciding if it's safe, as tolerance can change over time.
4. Some people can eat whole strawberries without issues, while others react to seeds or other foods, highlighting the need for individualized trials.
5. If whole fruit is problematic, use appliances like a Nutribullet to puree or juice produce, breaking down fiber while retaining nutrients and flavor.
6. Consider commercial alternatives like Oikos Strawberry-Flavored Greek Yogurt (confirmed seed-free), Gfit low-sugar drinks, and V8 vegetable/fruit blends for safe flavor variety.
7. If product labeling is unclear, contact the manufacturer or inspect the product before consuming it.
8. Gas rather than blockage might be a reaction; if yogurt feels too gassy, try clear strawberry juice instead.
9. While caution is important, don't let fear prevent you from enjoying life. Proceed at your own pace and comfort level, gradually broadening your food choices.
10. Remember that while hospitalization for blockages is serious, most day-to-day issues like gas or leaks are manageable. Don't let anxiety dictate all your choices.
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