Christmas is a time for indulgence, with festive meals, rich treats, and plenty of social gatherings. While everyone looks forward to these special moments, if you have a stoma, you might be wondering how to navigate the holiday season without discomfort. Fortunately, with a bit of planning and knowledge, you can still enjoy Christmas foods and drinks while managing your stoma effectively.
Understanding your stoma and festive foods
After stoma surgery, your digestive system works differently, and certain foods may affect you more than others. The key is knowing how different foods and drinks may impact your stoma and planning accordingly. Some holiday treats may cause wind, potential blockages, or irritation, but there are plenty of delicious alternatives you can enjoy without worry.
Foods to enjoy at Christmas
Christmas is filled with wonderful, nourishing foods that can work well for ostomates. Here are a few options that are generally stoma-friendly:
Turkey
Roast turkey is a Christmas dinner classic, and the good news is that it’s lean and easy to digest. Make sure it’s cooked without too much fat or heavy sauces to keep it light on your digestive system. Avoid the skin if it tends to irritate your stoma.
Roast potatoes
Potatoes are generally a safe option, but it’s best to enjoy them without too much oil, butter, or seasoning. Roast, mashed, or boiled potatoes can be a great side dish.
Carrots and parsnips
These root vegetables are typically softer and easier to digest than other greens. Roast them with a bit of olive oil for a tasty, stoma-friendly addition to your meal.
Puddings like custard
If you have a sweet tooth, soft puddings like rice pudding or custard can be a safer alternative to richer desserts like Christmas cake or mince pies, which can be harder to digest due to their dense and fibrous content.
Foods to be cautious of
Certain Christmas foods can cause issues with your stoma, either due to their texture or their ability to produce gas or cause blockages. Here are some foods to watch out for:
Brussels sprouts and other gassy vegetables
Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower are holiday staples, but they can lead to excess wind, which may result in stoma ballooning. If you love these vegetables, try to have them in small portions or consider swapping them for alternatives like carrots or green beans.
Christmas pudding and mince pies
These rich desserts are filled with dried fruits and nuts, which can be difficult to digest and may increase the risk of blockages. If you want to indulge, enjoy a small serving and chew thoroughly.
Nuts and seeds
Many festive snacks and desserts contain nuts and seeds, which can be problematic for those with a stoma. They can cause irritation or blockages, so it’s best to avoid them or opt for finely ground versions if you’re really craving the flavor.
Christmas drinks
The Christmas season also comes with plenty of opportunities to enjoy celebratory drinks. However, certain beverages may not sit well with your stoma.
Alcohol
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally fine, but some types, such as beer and champagne, can cause wind. Stick to still drinks like wine or spirits (in moderation), and always stay hydrated by alternating with water.
Fizzy drinks
Fizzy beverages are festive favorites but can cause stoma ballooning due to wind buildup. If you enjoy fizzy drinks, try to limit them, or opt for still alternatives like flat ginger ale or water with a splash of cranberry juice for a festive touch.
Stay hydrated
Christmas feasts are often accompanied by rich foods and alcohol, which can be dehydrating. Staying hydrated is key for good stoma management, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day!
Practical tips
Chew your food
Eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly can help aid digestion and prevent blockages. Enjoy the flavours of the season, but take your time during meals. Chewing thoroughly is also vital, especially for those with an ileostomy or short bowel, aiding nutrient absorption.
Opt for smaller portions
Instead of indulging in large meals, try eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This can help prevent discomfort and excessive wind buildup.
Keep supplies handy
If you’re attending Christmas parties or dinners, make sure to have extra stoma supplies with you, just in case. Being prepared can help you feel more relaxed and confident while enjoying the festivities. Should you observe any changes in your stoma output, consider incorporating products like ABSORB Odour Neutralising Absorbent Gel or eakin® seals into your routine. These can assist in thickening stoma output and creating a secure fit around your stoma bag, reducing the risk of leaks or accidents during the festive period, and providing security and comfort for your stoma.
Know signs of a blockage
Be mindful of any signs of discomfort or stoma blockage, especially if you’ve tried new foods. Symptoms can include cramps, swelling, or changes in stoma output. If you notice these, seek advice from your stoma care nurse.
While managing your stoma may require some extra thought during the holiday season, you can still enjoy delicious food and drinks at Christmas with a few mindful adjustments. By knowing which foods to enjoy and which to limit, you’ll be able to celebrate without compromising your comfort. So, enjoy the festive flavours, savour the moments with loved ones, and have a wonderful Christmas!
