Managing a High Output Stoma

A high output ileostomy can lead to dehydration, loss of important nutrients, and electrolyte imbalance. This page provides a summary of dietary and hydration advice to help manage high stoma output and reduce the risk of complications. Further information is available in the downloadable PDF resource.

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What Is an Ileostomy?

An ileostomy is an opening (stoma) created in the abdomen that allows waste from the small bowel to leave the body into a stoma bag.

A normal ileostomy output is typically:

• 400–600ml over 24 hours
• Similar in consistency to porridge or toothpaste

A high output ileostomy is usually defined as:

• More than 1500ml over 24 hours

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Signs of High Output

High output can reduce the body’s ability to absorb fluids and nutrients.

Symptoms of dehydration may include:

• Increased thirst
• Tiredness
• Headaches
• Feeling light-headed
• Passing less urine
• Darker urine than usual

If symptoms continue, seek advice from your healthcare professional.

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Foods That May Increase Output

Some foods and drinks may make stoma output looser or increase volume.

These can include:

• Wholemeal and high-fibre foods
• Beetroot
• Mushrooms
• Spicy foods
• Alcohol
• Fruit juice
• Milk (for some people)

Everyone is different, so it is important to identify foods that affect you personally.

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Foods That May Help Thicken Output

Some foods can help make stoma output thicker and easier to manage.

Examples include:

• White bread
• Rice
• Pasta
• Potatoes
• Bananas
• Marshmallows
• Jelly babies
• Smooth peanut butter
• Apple sauce
• Biscuits

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Hydration Advice

Managing fluids correctly is important when you have a high output ileostomy.

Helpful Tips

• Add extra salt to meals if advised
• Choose salty foods where appropriate
• Avoid drinking immediately before, during, or shortly after meals
• Limit fluids as advised by your healthcare professional
• Avoid excessive tea, coffee, alcohol, and fruit juice

Hydration advice may vary depending on your individual circumstances.

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Medication Support

Some medications may be prescribed to help reduce stoma output, including:

• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Codeine phosphate
• Omeprazole

Only take medications as prescribed by your healthcare professional.

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When To Seek Advice

Contact your doctor, stoma nurse, or dietitian if:

• Your stoma output remains high
• You are struggling to stay hydrated
• You develop symptoms of dehydration
• You are concerned about weight loss or nutrition

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Further Information Available

This page provides a summary of high output ileostomy advice.

The full PDF includes:

• Detailed dietary guidance
• Hydration recommendations
• Foods that may increase output
• Foods that may help thicken output
• Rehydration solution guidance
• Medication information
• Advice on managing dehydration

For complete guidance, please download the full PDF resource.