The topic at hand is about the concerns of eating sesame seeds when you have an ostomy. A person new to living with an ostomy found themselves worried after realizing they had eaten sesame seeds on a sandwich bun. They were concerned about the possibility of a blockage or other issues.
Here are some helpful insights and advice for anyone in a similar situation:
1. If you've already eaten something you're unsure about, there's not much to do but wait and see. Try to stay calm, as anxiety can affect your gut. Consider this a small "food test."
2. Everyone's tolerance is different, so there isn't a one-size-fits-all rule for people with a colostomy or ileostomy.
3. Sesame seeds are tiny, and most people with an ostomy don't have issues with them unless they have a seed allergy.
4. When trying new foods, consider these strategies:
- Introduce one new food at a time and in small amounts.
- Chew your food thoroughly.
- Pay attention to how your body reacts; seeds might pass through without causing any harm.
5. Many people with ostomies eventually return to their pre-surgery diets. However, be cautious with raw vegetables, corn, and popcorn, as they might require smaller portions or extra care.
6. If popcorn is problematic, try a hull-less alternative like "Chester’s Puff Corn – Butter Flavor" to satisfy your craving without the hard kernels.
7. Over time, stomas or intestinal tracts can change, and foods that were once okay might become troublesome. Keep reassessing your tolerance.
8. Reducing stress, whether by changing to a less stressful job or practicing relaxation techniques, can help improve digestion and reduce food-related issues.
9. Remember the motto: chew, chew, chew. Thorough chewing is your best defense against blockages from seeds, skins, or fibrous foods.
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