Everyone will have different needs from one day to the next, but lets agree that dehydration is one thing we all can relate to.
The questions we all have are, how much fluid should we be drinking daily? what are those fluids? and how much do I need to stay hydrated?
Some people may need 2 to 2 1/2 Ltrs (6 to 8 glasses) of fluid daily, whereas others may need more or less.
Lets just make it clear PLAIN WATER alone is not good hydration.
In order for fluid to be well absorbed by the body, a drink needs to have a small amount of glucose and some sodium. This concept is known as osmolarity.
Water is mostly absorbed through the large intestine(colon) which was interrupted, some water is absorbed in the small intestine(ileum), so it is possible to stay hydrated but difficult with a ostomy.
Here are some Tips/ Recommendations to stay hydrated:
-Gatorade (G2 less sugar) or sports drinks(low sugar)
-Homemade oral rehydration solutions
-Coconut Water
-V8 Juices (veggie juices) -Pedialyte
It is recommended that you drink extra fluids during hot weather and exercise.
Signs Of Dehydration:
Symptoms such as
dry mouth, headache, tiredness, weakness, confusion, dizziness, low blood pressure
and low urine output (very little urine that is very dark) can attribute to other health conditions as well, but they are often due to dehydration.
IF YOU FEEL SEVERELY DEHYDRATED OR IF YOUR URINE IS VERY DARK IN COLOR, THEN SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE IMMEDIATELY.
Here are a few examples of some foods with high water content (just remember your dietary restrictions):
-Watermelon
-Applesauce
-Yogurt
-pudding
-Smoothies
-Jell-O
Few more examples (slow down ostomy) but still good for hydration:
-Potatoes
-Bread
-Cracker
-Bananas
-Pretzels
HERE’S A FEW ADDITIONAL TIPS TO STAY HYDRATED
-Carrying a beverage with you that’s refillable, when you go out.
-Sip small amounts of fluid at a time, to help hydrate properly.
-Enjoy your favorite beverages (with flavors, fruits) for additional nutrition and electrolytes.
FOR MEDICAL ADVICE PLEASE SEE PROVIDERS TO SLOW DOWN TRANSIT TIME (ask doctor’s about taking Metamucil and optimize for water absorption)
We believe living with an ostomy should be a road to a new norm an productive life whether it’s socializing or being active. We all live different lives, share similar stories and are now back to the things we enjoy doing within them. Let’s live a life full of productivity, and stay healthy while doing it.
Thank you to all for the comments and support
OSTOMIESAWARENESS.COM, INC. 