Life with a stoma comes with many misconceptions and one of the most prevalent is the belief that you must adhere to a highly restricted diet indefinitely. This myth can lead to unnecessary dietary limitations and a significant impact on quality of life. I experienced this firsthand following my fight with colon cancer.
In the early days post-surgery, my dietitian advised me to stick to “beige foods,” which I interpreted as a mandate to avoid anything with colour or fibre. For weeks, I subsisted on a bland palette of low-fibre options, steering clear of the vibrant fruits and vegetables that once filled my plate. Before my diagnosis, my mornings buzzed to life with a nutrient-packed smoothie brimming with spinach, avocado, pineapple, blueberries, and chia seeds. Lunch was a celebration of greens in a leafy salad, and water was my constant, hydrating companion.
The turning point came when I met another Respond Ambassador who shared their journey of reintroducing various foods into their diet just a few weeks after surgery. This conversation was a revelation. It prompted me to question and eventually expand my own culinary boundaries beyond the beige.
Gradually, I began to reintroduce different foods, paying close attention to how my body responded. While I discovered that chilli led to diarrhoea and cabbage caused uncomfortable wind, these were small hurdles in the grand scheme. The reintroduction of fibrous foods didn’t just open up a world of flavours; it also contributed to a healthier lifestyle. Since changing from a low-fibre diet, I’ve managed to lose weight and have found joy in trying new foods.
To navigate this complex dietary landscape, I started keeping a food diary. This simple tool has been invaluable for both me and my family in planning meals and understanding the nuances of my digestive system’s needs. It’s a practice I recommend for anyone with a stoma, as it fosters a better relationship with food and health.
Beyond diet, there are other misconceptions about living with a stoma that need addressing:
Misconception: Stomas prevent you from dressing fashionably
Many believe that a stoma will dictate their wardrobe, confining them to baggy and unflattering clothes. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. With the right stoma products and some style tips, you can wear virtually anything you like. There are even specialised clothing accessories designed to make fashion comfortable for those with a stoma.
Misconception: Intimacy is off-limits with a stoma
Another common myth is that a stoma puts an end to intimate relationships. This is not the case. Communication with your partner, along with some adjustments and understanding, can ensure that intimacy remains a fulfilling part of life. Many people with stomas enjoy healthy sex lives.
In conclusion, while a stoma does necessitate certain changes, it doesn’t mean a lifetime of restrictions and sacrifices. By debunking myths, sharing personal stories, and supporting each other, we can paint a more accurate picture of life with a stoma—one that’s full of colour, variety, and personal growth. Whether it’s enjoying a diverse diet, dressing in the latest trends, or maintaining an intimate relationship, life with a stoma can be as rich and fulfilling as we choose to make it.
