Introducing new foods back into your diet takes a lot of precaution following an ostomy procedure. We always recommend adhering to physician recommendations when deciding how fast to do so, but we have some general guidelines to help you approach this sometimes tricky matter.
Six Tips for Introducing New Foods to Your Ostomy
Start Off Small
Stay away from spicy foods and large items initially. You’ll have to build back into a normal diet. Everyone’s different, so you’ll have to discover your own pace on this to some extent. This will involve some trial and error and multiple days of tracking your progress.
Chew Your Food!
Even non-ostomy patients could stand to chew better and avoid gas. Your goal should be to chew your food until it’s the same texture as a smoothie before swallowing.
Slow Down While You Eat
Even beneficial foods with fiber are a problem for those who simply eat too fast. Slow down, chew your food, enjoy it, and avoid eating when you’re in a rush at work.
Eat Silently & Focus on How Fast You’re Chewing
Sometimes when we get caught up in dinner conversations, we lose focus on how we’re chewing, which often leads us to eat too fast. We cannot overemphasize the need to be deliberate about eating after your ostomy because poor chewing will make you gassy and cause other problems.
Focus on Fibrous Foods & Hydration
You definitely want to add fiber to your diet, but be careful doing so. Bowel movements that are too quick or frequent can compromise your hydration level, which means you need to prepare yourself with extra water. Also, for certain foods that are a risk for blockage, it’s a good time to incorporate a moderate amount fiber while determining whether you can handle them.
Keep a Food Journal
Since this is different for everybody, you’ll want to keep a food journal. This will help you identify and distinguish good foods from bad, based on what your digestive system can handle. The food journal is also a good place to monitor how quickly you’re returning new foods into your diet (including portion sizes).
CYMED, makers of MicroSkin pouches, always seeks to assist patients with every angle and aspect of life following an ostomy surgery. If you handle things carefully, living with a stoma can be just as fulfilling as before you got it. We’re happy to help you with any other concerns or questions about ostomy and dietary recommendations. So, feel free to contact us any time to learn more at 1-800-582-0707.