Now, let me tell you what I have been running from. I have been running from the chance that my ulcerative colitis could turn into cancer. Through many colonoscopies it was determined, by my doctor, that the chance was right around the corner and a total colectomy was recommended. After the shock, I made the appointment and went through the surgery. What should have been a week long stay in the hospital turned into thirteen long days.
My diet restrictions have actually gotten worse since I had the surgery. I went home with an ileostomy, which means watch what you eat even more!!! Haven't I already had enough of this. I guess not; but it is only temporary. I will have a second surgery to reverse the ileostomy when the pouch is healed that was made from my small intestine.
Sooooo, no raw vegetables ( I guess I just need potato chips and my gluten free pretzels with my dip), no seeds or nuts, cook all your vegetables until they are mush (where did all the nutrients go?) and keep your diet low residue. For those who do not know what that means, it means stop eating fiber- you don't need it anymore. MAKE SURE YOU DRINK A LOT OF WATER-- ALL DAY!!
I also want to say to all who have an ileostomy for the first time it seems like such a life altering thing, and it is, but it is something that takes some trial and error to find what works well. Take it one day at a time, pray, look deep into yourself and give it your best. It was really nice to have a nurse come to the house to help me find the right fit. I could not have done as well by myself.
If I can do this, especially at this time of life, everybody can. I have hope that whatever I put my heart and soul into I can accomplish. I will try to keep my postings current, as well as finding and posting new recipes that will help keep me nourished and satisfy my taste buds.
