Diet for people with an unnatural anus (Colostomy)

As you probably already know, any type of surgical intervention comes with a period of time for the body to adjust to its "new shape", especially after an operation that resulted in a colostomy, or anus against nature, as it is popularly called.

Fortunately, there will be no major dietary restrictions, but it is preferable to introduce foods gradually into your diet, to eat little and often, initially in the form of fluid or semi-solid preparations, to carefully observe which products cause you discomfort.

If digestive function has been restored, intestinal transit has normalized, and the surgeon allows you, you can introduce vegetable purees and other semi-liquid foods into your diet, such as:

• pureed vegetable soups
• semolina with milk
• compote
• dairy products

As with anyone, not just those with a colostomy, certain foods may cause gas or discomfort. In these situations, it is advisable to eliminate the product from your diet for a period of time, and later you can gradually reintroduce it, watching how your body reacts.

Eat a variety of foods at regular intervals and chew your food thoroughly. Initially, eat small portions every 2-3 hours, gradually increasing the time between meals so that recovery is not forced or aggressive for your intestines or stomach.

In the first few weeks, it would be advisable to avoid certain foods that may cause you discomfort, such as:

BALLOONS AND GASES

• crudités
• maize
• peas
• beer
• potatoes
• borsch
• polenta
• pickles

– fruits that ferment (except for banana, orange and grapefruit - which can be eaten progressively with great care in the case of people with gastric disorders)

odors

• fish
• eggs
• cheese
• beans
• cabbage

Another important aspect to know is that you may also experience episodes of diarrhea and constipation. For a person with an anus against nature, these can be more unpleasant, so below we leave you a list of foods that would be harmful to consume in these situations.

In case of diarrheal episodes, avoid taking medication (at least in the first period after surgery) without your doctor's consent, and if the seizures persist, consult your doctor urgently.

Useful tips for diarrhea attacks:

AVOID:

– carbonated drinks and those containing caffeine or black tea

– milk, sweet cheese, ice cream and pudding

– juice or compote of plums, peaches, pears and apricots

CONSUMED:

– rice

– toast

– bananas

– pasta

 

In case of constipation episodes, avoid taking medication (at least in the first period after surgery) without your doctor's consent, and if the seizures persist, consult your doctor urgently.

Useful tips for constipation attacks:

AVOID:

– bananas

– nuts

– mushrooms

– celery

– dairy

CONSUMED:

- plum or pear juice or compote

– liquids 2/3 liters per day

– fresh vegetables and fruits

– honey (except for diabetics)

A healthy and balanced diet is necessary for every person. Consume foods carefully and monitor their effects on your body!

Join our Facebook group - Stoma Therapy Support Group , for delicious recipe ideas, advice and free discussions with specialists and people with colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy.