Colostomy: recommended post-operative diet and allowed foods

Colostomy is a rather delicate surgical procedure, during which the surgeon diverts the large intestine and connects it to an opening created specifically in the abdominal wall.

This opening, more correctly called a stoma, must be connected to a bag for stool collection and replaces the natural anus.

But how should an individual undergoing colostomy be fed?

Immediately after the operation, doctors advise against foods that are particularly rich in fiber (fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes), as these, by increasing the volume of the stools, may block the intestine or stoma, both still weak due to of the colostomy.

This precaution is generally valid for the first 7-8 days, after which the patient can go back to eating without particular restrictions, if not the (very important) one of adopting a healthy and balanced diet.

Therefore, once healing is completed, fruit and vegetables are again given; carbohydrates (preferably integral) should constitute a large part of the meals; finally, dairy products and protein foods should be low in fat (ie low-fat milk or yogurt, lean meats, fish, etc.).