At the risk of sounding like a Grinch, I really don’t like Christmas much. Why? Probably because there’s more and more hustle and bustle, stressed people spending more and more money, panic about getting this and that in time and pressure to buy the latest gadgets and accessories… it’s STRESSFUL!
Obviously that’s my personal opinion but nevertheless, with that in mind, I’ve thought about what the top survival tips I could give you might be. So here goes:
1. Think ahead
Whenever you’re out shopping, just get a few things each time that might keep in a cupboard or the freezer to save that last minute dash to the shops because you’ve forgotten something. Make a list and cross things off as you go. Prepare home cooked pies, veg, or whatever beforehand and freeze until you need it. Organise gifts throughout the year if that’s possible and it spreads the cost. You might well ask, “What has this got to do with a stoma?” Well my response, from experience, is that the more rushing about and stressing that you do has a significant impact on your output and then that brings on the additional issues of dehydration, fatigue and mental stress.
2. Plan for travelling
It is really important to think about ordering your stoma supplies in plenty of time for the festive period. This is particularly important if you are going to visit relatives or making a Christmas holiday abroad. There would be nothing worse that having to take emergency action and potentially struggle to find the appropriate products in a foreign country. I would strongly advise having a travel ‘kit’ in your car should you have to make an unexpected stop and ensure you take enough supplies with you, including spares!
3. Festive food choices
If, like me, you find so many seasonal ingredients impossible to digest, it can mean a little more thought will have to go into choosing your food for over the Christmas period. Christmas recipes contain lots of of currants, sultanas and nuts, like mince pies and Christmas pudding which are not be ideal for people living with an ileostomy. It’s probably okay to enjoy these in small amounts and thus reduce the risk of an upset bowel but I find it’s better to avoid them. I might opt for a sponge pudding or a cold dessert instead of Christmas pudding, and a chocolate Yule log rather than Christmas cake. Let’s face it, there is so much more choice in our shops these days nobody needs to feel short-changed.
4. Parties
Socialising is a hugely important part of sharing Christmas with friends and family, but it is easy to over- indulge if you’re not careful. As an ostomate try to be mindful of what buffet food or elements of rich dining can disagree with you. Rich foods can lead to a more active stomach and even ballooning or pancaking. Drinking too much alcohol or too many fizzy drinks are also not a good idea. My tips here would be just eat small portions, chewing well to help digestion and let your drinks go a little flat before you drink them to avoid ballooning. This is probably a good point to mention my favourite mantra: hydration, hydration and more hydration. Drinking plenty of fluids is essential and if you are out partying try to drink water between your alcoholic drinks.
5. Rest and relaxation
If you are lucky enough to have some time away from work, make the most of it and use the time to recharge your batteries. Do whatever helps you to relax; spend some time outdoors, maybe go for a walk or spend time doing a hobby. Whatever helps you unwind can only be of benefit, take some time out for yourself and protect your mental health.
So will I enjoy Christmas? Of course I will. I was being a bit negative in the introduction and I don’t suppose I am really that “grinchy” – actually I am going to be dressing up as Santa for a few Christmas parties over the next couple of weeks and that always brings a smile to my face!
Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and ho, ho, ho for another year.
