Advanced Care Program: Ostomy

Diarrhea

Anyone can get diarrhea from an illness or other reasons. With an ostomy, you can still get diarrhea. Diarrhea that lasts too long can lead to dehydration. If you get diarrhea, you need to increase the amount of fluids you drink, and avoid foods and beverages that may cause loose stools. There are some foods that you can eat that will help to thicken your stools.

Foods and beverages that may cause loose stools:

• beer or alcohol
• green beans
• broccoli
• prunes or prune juice
• fresh fruits (except bananas)
• spicy foods
• grapes/grape juice
• spinach

Foods and beverages that may thicken stools:

• applesauce
• creamy peanut butter
• bananas
• pretzels
• buttermilk
• rice
• cheese
• tapioca pudding
• marshmallows
• toast
• boiled milk
• yogurt
• noodles

If diarrhea continues, see your healthcare professional.

More Ostomy Topics

Odor Control
Diet
Skin Care
Diarrhea
Emptying Ostomy Pouches
Changing and Disposing of an Ostomy Pouch