Staying Hydrated with an Ostomy - Essential Tips
In collaboration with Hollister Incorporated, I'm thrilled to bring you valuable insights and tips on a crucial topic - staying hydrated with an ostomy. We’ve also put together a great video for you – watch now!
In this blog post, we're discussing something that's essential for everyone but especially crucial for those living with an ostomy - staying hydrated. Water is the elixir of life, making up a significant portion of our bodies and playing a vital role in our overall well-being. However, for individuals with an ostomy, maintaining proper hydration can be even more critical.
Why Hydration Matters with an Ostomy:
Did you know that up to 60% of the human body is composed of water? Water is essential for numerous bodily functions and varies in importance depending on factors such as age, gender, body weight, activity level, and location. But how does hydration differ for someone living with an ostomy?
If you have an ileostomy, you're particularly vulnerable to dehydration because your body may lose more fluids since liquids aren't reabsorbed into the large intestine. Additionally, your water intake requirements can depend on your specific disease state, ostomy type, and any medications or supplements you're taking.
Practical Tips for Staying Hydrated:
Here are some practical steps I take to ensure I stay hydrated:
1. Prioritize Water: Unless you have fluid restrictions, consult your doctor to determine the right amount of fluid intake for you. Personally, I aim to drink a gallon of water a day. While it might lead to more bathroom breaks, it's worth it. A good rule of thumb is to drink a glass of liquid whenever you empty your pouch.
2. Add Flavors: To make water more appealing, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or infuse it with natural fruits or herbs like lemons, limes, or mint. Always opt for filtered water when possible. Herbal or non-caffeinated teas can also count toward your daily water intake and provide essential electrolytes.
3. Stay Hydrated When Traveling: When flying, I ensure I drink 16 oz of water before the flight, sip water during the flight, and another 16 oz upon landing. Yes, it does lead to restroom trips, but it's a small price to pay for proper hydration.
4. Balance with Alcohol: While I enjoy a glass of wine from time to time, alcohol can dehydrate you quickly. My rule is one glass of water for every glass of wine. Trust me; it won't ruin the taste, and your body will thank you the next day.
5. Exercise Hydration: I make it a habit to carry water with me when I work out. Before I even have my morning coffee, I drink 22 oz of water. Then, it's coffee, breakfast, and off to the gym with my water bottle. I drink another 22 oz while working out and have an additional 22 oz when I return home. That's how I reach my daily goal of a gallon. The difference it has made in how I feel and look is remarkable.
6. Monitor Urine Color: A good indicator of proper hydration is passing clear or straw-colored urine throughout the day. Dehydration can be a concern for everyone, ostomates or not. When you need to rehydrate, water is often the best choice.
Incorporating these hydration habits into your daily routine not only helps you stay hydrated but also promotes better health overall. Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining the flow of your ostomy and keeps your skin healthy.
For additional resources, visit the Ostomy Learning Center at Hollister.com/ostomylearningcenter .
Remember, staying hydrated is a vital part of living your best life with an ostomy.