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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Is there anyway to prevent explosive bowel movements and smell?

    I have no large bowel having it surgically removed due to ulcerative colitis and a ‘w’ pouch made. Since then I have explosive bowel movements that are full of loud wind noises and very smelly loose stools. Is there anything I can take to reduce the wind and smell?
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    I am an Accredited Practising Dietitian locally born and working within the Riverina.I have a passion for helping people to achieve their nutrition goals, coaching … View Profile

    HOw long has it been since the surgery as the bowel is a very adaptable organ and it takes time to adjust to the new circumstances.

    Loose and windy stools are very comon after colectomy as the large bowel is the essential organ for concetrating the stools and producing a firm soft motion. However there are certain offending foods that can increase the smell and create looser motions. Theses foods tend to produce diarrhoea;

    • Legumes/baked beans
    • Beer and red wine
    • Brocoli, spinach
    • Chocolate
    • Lots of coffee, hot beverages or soups
    • Licorice
    • Prunes
    • Very large or spicy meals
    These foods tend to increase gas production;
    • Apples, Apricots, Banana's, Raisins and Citrus Fruits
    • Beans and othre legumes
    • Bread, pastries and wheat germ
    • Vegetables like carrots, celery, cabbage, brussel sprouts, eggplant and potatoes
    • Onion, lettuce
    • Prune juice and milk products
    Not all of these foods you will react to however keeping a food and symptom diary can be a good way to identify whether eating these foods makes your motions or wind more offensive and regular. 
    If you are still struggling to identify these foods, contact a local dietitian and they should be able to help you manage your symptos.

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