Top 10 Foods to Slow Down Ostomy Output
Living with an ostomy for the past 16 years, I’ve learned a lot about how food affects output—especially when you’re trying to avoid frequent bag changes during travel, workouts, or big events. Below are some of the foods that have worked best for me personally, along with tips and insights from others in the ostomy community and healthcare professionals.
🥔 1. White Rice
Why it works: This starchy staple helps firm up stool and slow output. Ostomate Tip: @ostomy_diaries often shares how she uses rice before flights to manage output.
🍌 2. Bananas (ripe)
Why it works: Packed with pectin and potassium, bananas help bind stool and keep you hydrated. Nutritionist Insight: Holistic health coach Megan Lyons recommends bananas for gentle gut support.
🍞 3. White Bread or Toast
Why it works: Easy to digest and low in fiber, white bread can help reduce activity in the gut. Influencer Note: Ostomy fitness coach Blake Beckford includes toast in his morning meals for consistent output.
🧀 4. Cheese
Why it works: Slows down digestion thanks to casein and fat. I personally go for cheddar or Swiss before long car rides. Try This: Pair a little cheese with crackers or pasta for a slow-digesting combo.
🍗 5. Skinless Chicken or Turkey
Why it works: Lean, easily digestible protein that firms up output. Nurse’s Pick: CWOCN nurse Joy Hooper recommends pairing with rice or mashed potatoes for ostomy-friendly meals.
🥚 6. Eggs
Why it works: High in protein and gentle on the gut. Ostomate Tip: @TheBagLifeofJen eats hard-boiled eggs before photo shoots and public events.
🥔 7. Peeled Potatoes (Boiled or Mashed)
Why it works: A slow-burning carb with binding starch. These are a go-to comfort food when my output feels unpredictable.
🍝 8. White Pasta
Why it works: Refined carbs help slow things down. Influencer Tip: @OstomyQueen preps a bowl of pasta before any adventure or day trip to stay in control.
🍏 9. Applesauce (Not Raw Apples)
Why it works: Contains soluble fiber like pectin, which helps solidify output. Note: Unsweetened versions are best to avoid sugar-related irritation.
🥕 10. Cooked Carrots
Why it works: Gentle on the gut and rich in soluble fiber. Pro Tip: Always cook them well—raw carrots can be hard to digest for some ostomates.
💬 A Personal Note:
After 16 years with an ostomy, I can confidently say that managing your output doesn’t have to be complicated—just strategic. These foods have helped me through big life moments, travel days, and recovery periods. And I’ve picked up a few of these tips from amazing people in the ostomy community like @ostomy_diaries, @TheBagLifeofJen, and Blake Beckford, who all openly share their journeys online.
Your experience might vary, but with a little experimenting, you’ll find your go-to foods too.
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