Written by Sarah
Whether you have just begun your recovery process post-op or have been a lifelong ostomate, navigating a sustainable but enjoyable diet is key to your wellbeing! One of the first nutritional elements you should consider experimenting with is fibre. The right kind of fibre can be especially beneficial to an ostomate while other kinds of fibre can be detrimental.
The Tale of Two Fibres - Insoluble and Soluble Fibres
Insoluble Fibres
Insoluble fibres are fibres that do not dissolve in water. This includes foods like mushrooms, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and the skins of fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fibres are harder for the gut to digest and can clump up in the digestive system. For new ostomates, it is best to avoid insoluble fibres for the first 6-8 weeks after surgery as they can easily cause blockages. After your bowels have had time to heal, you may slowly begin to reintroduce small amounts of these foods back into your diet. While doing so, be sure to keep a close eye on how these fibres make your body feel. You should make sure to keep the insoluble fibres to small amounts to prevent a serious bowel blockage.
Soluble Fibres
Soluble fibres are fibres that dissolve in water. This includes apples (without skin), bananas, oats, barley, cooked carrots, and cooked sweet potatoes (without skin). Soluble fibres are extremely beneficial for ostomates as they can help slow intestinal movement and bulk up your output. If you are struggling with high amounts of liquid output, consider increasing sources of insoluble fibres to your diet could help alleviate this issue.
How should I add more fibre to my diet?
A great way to incorporate more soluble fibres into your diet is through sauces and soups. Try making your own apple sauce—perfect to eat on its own or as a supplemental topping. I find experimenting with new soup recipes to be an easy way to add extra soluble fibre while maintaining digestibility. One of my favourite recipes is a Sweet Potato Soup with Maple Croutons. It’s a hearty soup that helps break through the early spring chills and is quite filling.
If you would like to discover more ostomate diet tips, check out our other nutrition related blogs:
Spring Breakfast Recipe | Nightingale Medical Supplies
Comforting, Ostomy Friendly Recipes | Nightingale Medical Supplies
Food and Colorectal Cancer Risk | Nightingale Medical Supplies
Conclusion
Navigating nutrition goals like fibre post-ostomy can be quite daunting, but getting in the kitchen and experimenting with new foods can make it a positive experience. While we can provide a rough guideline to navigating your diet, you should always refer to your local NSWOC to for any medical advice.
More about Sarah
Hello, my name is Sarah. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania but now live in Vancouver, BC. I attended the University of British Columbia for Biology and graduated in 2019. In fall of 2021, I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and very soon after underwent a total colectomy. I lived with an Ileostomy for two years before undergoing the procedures for a J-Pouch. I now spend my time with a fulfilling career helping Ostomates with their post-surgical care at Nightingale Medical Supplies. In my free time, I enjoy reading, volunteering with Girl Guides, and crafting.
Learn more about Sarah's story in her piece: "Finding a New Normal with Ulcerative Colitis".
Where FiberCel May Fit In
Another way to incorporate fibre into your diet is with supplementation. FiberCel provides 5g of soluable fibre that dissolves easily without altering taste or texture; a perfect way to add a boost of fibre content of any meal!
Try it for yourself today: FiberCel Fiber Powder | Nightingale Medical Supplies