But what if you don't irrigate? Part of the difficulty in elimination of waste matter experienced by colostomates is due to lack of bulk in the diet. Consumption of white bread, pastry and highly refined foods does not provide the roughage and bulk necessary for proper evacuation of the colon. The deficiency can be overcome in part by the simple addition of bran to the diet. Bran can be made into muffins adding raisins and molasses to taste.
Diet. There is no such thing as a colostomy diet. A colostomy is not an illness, so try to eat the same foods you have eaten and enjoyed in the past. If you are on a diet for a condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, of course you should stay on that diet. Foods can be acidic or alkaline, bland or spicy, laxative-like or constipating. Individuals react differently to food. Try to return to your former, normal diet. Those foods which disagreed with you in the past may still do so. Chew well and see the effect of each food on your colostomy output.
To maintain good health, the body requires carbo hydrates, proteins, fat, minerals, and vitamins. Water is not nutritious but is absolutely necessary. Having a balanced diet is a fitting way to maintain good nutrition and keep bowel activity normal. Every day your body needs meats or fish, dairy foods, vegetables and fruits, cereals and bread, and liquids. Talk to your physician or ET nurse if you have problems.
