Do I need to follow a special diet? Is there something I can't eat? What about alcohol?

In general, the food that was good and healthy for you before your surgery is still good for you – and the same goes for the unhealthier options. A well-balanced diet is recommended, but this could very well include all of your favourite foods. 

Eating small portions is still a good idea 

After surgery, your stoma care nurse may have given you advice on the size of your meal portions. As you gradually build up your digestive system, you may feel better by eating smaller portions on a more regular basis. 

It is really important that you try to listen to your body and make sure you have regular meals, as this will help you have a more predictable bowel movement. 

Stay in balance 

It is important for you to get plenty of water to stay properly hydrated. Because of your ileostomy, your body will absorb less of the water you drink, so you will probably need to drink 2-3 litres of fluid every day, depending on the volume of output. 

You will probably find that certain foods produce more wind than others, and although it is not harmful, you may want to cut down on these foods. The same applies to chewing gum. But remember: it will only take a little experimentation to find a balanced diet that feels right for you. 

Alcohol and caffeinated drinks 

Alcohol is fine in moderation, although carbonated drinks in general can produce wind. Similarly, tea and coffee are fine, but be aware of any reactions in your digestive system. 

Remember to chew carefully 

Chewing carefully is very important to get a proper start to the digestive process. This applies especially if you eat foods that are hard to digest (such as nuts). 

Some foods, especially high fibre foods, can cause a food blockage, where undigested parts of food block the bowel. Chewing well can help, but a food blockage can be quite serious. It can cause cramping, pain and watery output, and your abdomen and ostomy may become swollen.

If you think you have a food blockage, you should call your doctor or stoma care nurse or go to A&E.

Dining out with an ostomy

Enjoying a meal at a restaurant is one of life's great joys - and there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn't be able to do that after your surgery, assuming your doctor has given the green light to resume a normal diet. 

You might have already tried dining out again, but it is completely understandable if you do not feel quite ready yet. 

Choose a familiar place 

No matter what, a good strategy is to start with a familiar restaurant and keep it simple when ordering. There is no need to be overly cautious, just be sensible. In the beginning, however, you may want to order a type of food that you have already tried at home first so you know how you will be likely to react. As you gradually expand your diet, you will feel more confident when eating out as well. 

Show restraint when drinking 

Even if you are used to having a drink at home, it could well be best to 'start small'. For example, drink a small beer rather than a large one. This will help your body build up your tolerance to alcohol again and help lessen – or completely avoid – any reactions.