The topic at hand is about whether it's safe for someone with an ostomy to enjoy Japanese foods like sushi, sashimi, oysters, and other shellfish. An ostomate, someone who has undergone surgery to create an opening in the body for the discharge of body wastes, is curious about indulging in these foods after avoiding them for nearly a year. They seek advice from others who have similar experiences.
Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by fellow ostomates:
1. Many people with ileostomies or colostomies have reported that they regularly eat sushi, sashimi, oysters, shellfish, and other seafood without experiencing any digestive issues or adverse reactions.
2. Odor management is a common concern. Fish and seafood can sometimes create a strong odor in the pouch for a day or two. Here are some suggestions to manage this:
- Add extra odor-control drops to the pouch after emptying it.
- Use commercial deodorizer products. One person mentioned a product that makes the output smell like bananas, though they didn't specify a brand.
- "Burp" the pouch outdoors or use an air freshener in the bathroom.
3. There was a cautionary tale from one member who experienced a 6-day partial blockage after eating sushi wrapped in white rice paper, which is made from rice and soy flour. They found that this wrapper turned into a thick, glue-like substance inside the bowel. They advise others to avoid these wrappers or chew them very thoroughly.
4. When it comes to raw versus cooked sushi, one person prefers to eat only cooked sushi, such as shrimp, crab, or tempura rolls, and avoids raw fish as an extra safety measure. They suggest moderation if you choose to eat raw items.
5. A long-time ostomate shared that even when they had severe ulcerative colitis before surgery, sushi and sashimi were among the few foods that never bothered them.
In general, most ostomates find they can enjoy sushi and other seafood. However, it's important to be mindful of potential odor issues and the risk of blockages from certain wrappers or large, fibrous pieces. Using odor-control drops or deodorizers can help manage any concerns.
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