My colrectal consultant has suggested powdered psyllium for thickening loose output. I have found foods such as pasta, mashed potato and stewed apple work well, but on days when I don't eat these my output can be quite loose, especially if I try to keep up my hydration. Loperamide tends to work too well, resulting in pancaking. I have had my colostomy since November 2022.
Has anybody tried psyllium successfully and what dose works best?
Thanks for any advice.
Hi Catgirl2
I’d be really interested to see what replies you get, although I don’t have this issue myself with my colostomy. Sorry I’m not able to help, but hope someone else can.
Sarah xx
I had heard of it, and know some ladies who take it. So I went and had a look but it seems it is not recommended to have it if you are on cholesterol lowering medication. As I take statins now following my stroke it looks like it shouldn’t be something I take.
Interesting about the peanut butter Dulac. I find it speeds things up for me! I eat 100% stuff and I love peanuts and peanut butter, but even a tiny amount spread on toast is now too difficult with the speed of output! Regrettably, I think I just need to give it up altogether but I’ll miss it!
Sarah xx
Hi Dulac yes, the ileostomy is a shorter digestion process. I found peanuts very difficult in the months after surgery-they made me sick, but as time went on I was able to eat them with no issue. Now it’s unfortunately become a regular occurrence that if I attempt peanut butter I will get cramping and an explosion! I have had cashew nuts in my stir fry tonight, so I’ll see what happens there!
Sarah xx
