Can You Eat Mexican Food With a Stoma?

Many people worry that they won’t be able to enjoy their favorite foods after having ostomy surgery, but that doesn’t have to be the case! Enjoying Mexican dishes, for example, is possible with careful planning and preparation. 

Below, we will discuss how you can safely eat Mexican food with an ostomy bag and offer tips for making sure your meals are enjoyable and nutritious. Read on and enjoy! 

Can You Eat Mexican Food With an Ostomy Bag?

Yes, you can eat Mexican food with a stoma! However, it may be necessary to modify some of the ingredients and cooking methods to make sure the food is safe for you to eat. Those with an ileostomy, in particular, may have difficulty digesting ingredients like chili peppers and onions that are present in some Mexican dishes.

People with a colostomy do not typically have as many dietary restrictions – the body should be able to digest and absorb nutrients normally. That said, if you have a colostomy, it’s still important to monitor your diet and make note of foods that cause odor, blockages, or constipation issues.

So, it’s important for all ostomates to be aware of the ingredients in Mexican dishes. If you are unsure if a dish contains ingredients that may be difficult to digest, it’s best to avoid it or check with your doctor before eating.

Can You Eat Salsa With a Stoma?

Salsa is a universal staple of Mexican cuisine. Unfortunately for ostomates, salsa usually contains ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and peppers. Raw tomatoes and onions can be difficult to digest for people with an ostomy, so it’s best to avoid them if you can.

If you absolutely must have salsa with your meal, try opting for a homemade version that is free from tomatoes and onions. Try incorporating fruits, such as mango or pineapple, or more palatable veggies like avocado. For some ostomates, it’s even fine to use peeled tomatoes with seeds removed.

Can You Eat Refried Beans With an Ileostomy Bag?

Refried beans are tricky for ostomy patients. Pinto and black beans contain fiber – mostly in the outer layers of skin – that can be difficult to break down. Consequently, they can cause gas, blockages, and excessive odor. 

Refried beans, being heavily cooked and mashed, may be safer. One way to discover what causes gas or odor in your body is to use trial and error. If you want to try eating refried beans, start with small amounts and make sure it is blended and/or mashed thoroughly.

Overcoming the Fear Factor – Tips for Eating With a Stoma 

Many people with a stoma feel anxious eating, especially in public and/or when it’s something new. Here are some tips for expanding your menu of food – Mexican or otherwise – at home or dining out:

• Start slow: Don’t try to do too much at once. Start with a single dish that you know is easy on you and gradually expand your food choices.
• Bring supplies: It’s always good to be prepared and have some ostomy supplies on hand when eating out. Packing a bag with extra pouches or accessories (CeraPlus Barrier Extenders, for example) can really boost your confidence and make the dining experience more enjoyable.
• Check ingredients: Before ordering, ensure the dish you want doesn’t contain ingredients that could be difficult for you. If it does, ask if there is a substitute available.
• Choose wisely: Some dishes are better for ostomates than others. Look for dishes with low-fiber ingredients like avocadoes, white rice, and chicken.
• Cook and chop: Try to avoid pre-cut and processed ingredients. Whenever possible, cook your food from scratch and chop all the ingredients into small pieces.
• Eat regularly and keep your meals light: This will help avoid stomach bloating.
• Chew your food thoroughly: This will help break down the ingredients so they are easier to digest. 
• Keep a food diary: Track your progress and keep a record of any issues or improvements you experience. This will help you become aware of any foods that could be causing problems and identify any triggers.

Enjoy Mexican Food Without Any Worries

Having the right supplies with you can make a big difference the next time you visit your favorite Mexican restaurant. At Medical Monks, we understand the needs of ostomy patients and have a wide selection of high-quality products, including one-piece pouches, two-piece systems, barrier rings and seals, deodorants, and much more. Shop our selection of ostomy supplies today!