We know how important Ramadan is to many of our patients. So we’ve pulled together some advice to help you participate. Don’t forget, fasting isn’t obligatory if you are elderly, sick or it would be detrimental to your health. If you do decide to take part, here are some top tips to make it go as smoothly as possible:

What to eat during Ramadan with a stoma:

Avoid Salt

If you have a urostomy or ileostomy, you may be at a higher risk of dehydration. Salty, processed or fried foods can be difficult to digest and can make you feel more thirsty.

Control Output

Avoid foods that make your output loose or give you wind, such as leafy green vegetables, very spicy foods, baked beans and too much fish. Ileostomists may be able to take loperamide during non-fasting periods.

What to drink during Ramadan with a stoma:

Stay Hydrated

Drink at least 2 litres of nonfizzy water or caffeine-free drinks when not fasting. If you have a urostomy, introduce foods that are high in water, such as melon or cucumber.

Introduce Juices

Juicing fruits and vegetables can be a good way of getting the health benefits and extra fluids if you are unable to eat whole pieces of fruit and vegetables.

Hints and tips for celebrating Ramadan with a stoma:

Keep Cool

If the weather is hot, try to stay cool and don’t exert yourself too much. Try to keep out of direct sunlight.

Delay Fasting

Patients who have recently had surgery may be excused from participating. Discuss this with your Imam or mosque leader and see if you can ‘make up the days’ after you have completed your recovery.

Change Regularly

Change your bag daily to check the health of your stoma. It’s important to ensure your stoma is pink, red and moist.

What if I become unwell?

Stop fasting and contact your GP. If you are concerned about any of these issues or how your stoma may be affected, please speak to your local hospital, GP or Stoma Care Nurse for more information.

 Kindly written by Salts Medilink® Stoma Nurses Lisa Hall, RGN; and Sarah Ashworth, RGN, with invaluable input from their patients.