Nutrition - Foods

The majority of foods impacting individuals with IBD have the same impacts on those with either an ileostomy or colostomy. There are some foods that impact only one or the other.

For Individuals with an Ileostomy or Colostomy

Foods that may cause gas
carbonated beverages/pops beer cucumbers dried beans / peas / legumes broccoli cauliflower	cabbage / sauerkraut brussel sprouts onions sweet potatoes turkey melons

 

Foods that may cause odour
fish eggs onions garlic spicy foods cabbage	cauliflower brussels sprouts asparagus broccoli turnip strong cheeses

 

Foods that may thicken stool
applesauce bananas cheese (particularly aged varieties) marshmallows pasta smooth peanut butter barley	white rice tapioca yogurt pretzels potato chips oat products (oatmeal, oat bran)

 

Foods that may loosen stool
alcohol raw fruits grape and apple juices green beans prunes / prune juice	spicy or fried foods high-sugar foods (e.g. syrup) spinach coffee

Only for Individuals with a Colostomy

Foods and beverages that may help constipation
extra fluids fruit juices (e.g. prune, grape, apple)	fresh fruit and vegetables wheat bran (e.g. bran cereal)

Only for Individuals with an Ileostomy

For individuals with an ileostomy, the colon has either been removed or bypassed. The functions of the colon is to absorb water, salt and potassium. When the colon has been removed or bypassed, some of these functions have been lost. It is important to be aware of the signs, symptoms and treatment measures for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

 

	Signs and Symptoms	Treatment Measures
Dehydration	Increased thirst, dry mouth, dry skin, decreased urine output, fatigue, shortness of breath, stomach cramps.	Increase fluids of any kind.
Sodium Loss	Loss of appetite, stomach cramps, cold arms and/or legs, fatigue, feeling faint.	The highest sources of sodium are found in: bullion, instant powder soups, canned soups, salted crackers, pretzels, pickles, tomato juices, smoked meats, ham, wieners. Cottage cheese, cheeses, milk and drinks such as Gastrolyte club soda, or Gatorade are lower sources of salt.
Potassium Loss	Fatigue, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, decreased sensation in arms and legs, and a gassy bloated feeling.	High sources in the vegetable family include: tomatoes, V-8 juice, potatoes, squash, carrots, vegetable and cream soups, salad greens. High sources of potassium in fruits, include: oranges, grapefruits, bananas, melon and avocado. Smooth peanut butter, nuts, butter, tea and coffee are also sources of potassium.