How to Keep a Food Diary After a Colostomy
A colostomy is an opening made in the abdomen through which part of the colon is attached. Colostomies are surgically created for a variety of reasons including treatment of cancer or other serious digestive disorders. A colostomy may be permanent or temporary depending on the diagnosis.
While there is no specific colostomy diet, keeping a food diary can be extremely helpful in managing life with a colostomy. Understanding the effect of various foods and liquids on the timing and output of stool and gas can make for easier maintenance of the colostomy. Keeping a detailed food diary can aid in understanding your own digestive processes and ensure an active lifestyle.
Instructions
-
-
1
Label the first page with today's date at the top of the page. You will use approximately one page for each day.
-
2
Divide the page into four columns with the following headings:
Food/Drink: List the type of food you ate; for example, pepperoni pizza, chocolate chip cookies, green beans, etc.
Amount: Estimate the quantity of food you consumed; for example: 1 slice, 3 cookies, 1 cup
Time: Write down the time that you ate each food
Output: Record stool or gas outputs and the time they occur -
-
3
Note patterns as they develop, for example: you may start to notice that drinking coffee every morning stimulates output within 15 minutes. Over time, you will learn what types of food are best to eat and what mealtimes allow for the most freedom with regards to managing your colostomy.
-
4
Keep the diary for at least one month. Bring it with you when you meet with your doctor or colostomy nurse if you have questions or concerns.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Keep the diary with you at all times and write down what you eat as soon as you eat it. This prevents difficulty recalling what you consumed.
Be as specific as possible. For example, if you ate mashed potatoes with gravy, be sure to remember to include the gravy in your diary.
Drink eight to ten glasses of water each day to stay hydrated and keep your digestive system regular.
Eating four to five small meals a day, instead of three large meals may be helpful in managing your colostomy output. Try to eat meals at the same time every day.
