Ileostomy and vitamin supplements

Hi Kathy

Thanks for getting in touch with us here on the Ask A Nurse site at Macmillan.

My name is Gemma and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

Firstly, thanks for your question about vitamins post-panproctocolectomy.

Ileostomy’s should not stop you from living an active life but you may need to make some lifestyle changes, including changes to your diet.

While you recover from ileostomy surgery you should eat a low-fibre diet. Gradually you can introduce new foods into your daily routine.

If you are concerned that you may be deficient in Vitamin B, your consultant/stoma nurse or GP can perform a blood test to check your levels.

If they are concerned, they will refer you to a dietician for advice or prescribe supplements. You must always seek medical advice from your team before introducing specific vitamin supplements.

I hope this is helpful and you contact your team for advice, I hope this also helps with your anxiety.

Have you tried speaking to your GP about it, they may be able to offer support and advice. Alternatively, have you looked at sites such as MIND it has some good advice and coping strategies.

I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, please get in touch by email, webchat or phone. The Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial, and emotional support. You can call us free from landlines and from most mobile phone networks* on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8 am – 8 pm. You can also visit our Online Community, where you can talk to others who have been affected by cancer. 

Best Wishes

Gemma

Macmillan Information Nurse

Ref: GeS/SMG