Adjusting to life with an ostomy requires some changes to your everyday routine, but over time, you'll learn to navigate the new normal with ease. For many, understanding what lifestyle changes are necessary—and which parts of life can stay the same—is key to feeling empowered. One common question that comes up, especially around social events, is whether it’s safe to enjoy an alcoholic drink with a stoma. To help give you everything you need to enjoy a refreshing beverage on special occasions, here's what you need to know about alcohol and an ostomy.
Understanding Alcohol’s Impact on the Body with a Stoma
When you have an ostomy, your body technically processes alcohol the same way it did before surgery. However, people with a stoma may experience different effects from alcohol depending on whether they've had a colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy. Regardless, it's okay to have an alcoholic drink every now and then, but before doing so, it's best to talk to your healthcare professional. You should also make sure that you understand some of the potential impacts of alcohol after an ostomy surgery. The most notable include the following.
Dehydration Risks
Alcohol has a naturally dehydrating effect—it's one of the reasons you may feel a bit under the weather the day after a few too many. Because of this, ostomates are at an increased risk for dehydration. This is because part of the bowel is removed during surgery, making it difficult for your body to absorb water and electrolytes. Alcohol can make this worse, as it's a diuretic that promotes the production of urine and leads to faster fluid loss. Therefore, if you're drinking, try to have a glass of water with every alcoholic beverage you consume. If you notice any signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, decreased urine output, and dark urine, sip on something with electrolytes and increase your water intake.
Changes in Stoma Output
Alcohol can also cause fluctuations in stoma output. High-sugar drinks like sweet cocktails and beer may lead to increased, looser output, while stronger drinks could slow things down temporarily, only to cause sudden output later. The unpredictability can make people feel uncomfortable or raise concerns about stoma bag leakage. If you're a new ostomate, try to pay attention to how certain drinks make you feel. Monitoring how different types of alcohol impact your body can allow you to make more informed choices. You may also want to limit alcohol consumption to special occasions (or none at all) if you're experiencing digestive issues.
Interference with Medications
Alcohol can affect the efficacy and safety of medications, from painkillers to blood pressure pills. If you’re on any medications after surgery, always ask your doctor about potential interactions. You should ask about all medications and supplements, from antacid tablets to melatonin. Certain drugs can cause adverse side effects when mixed with alcohol, so it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Tips for Drinking Alcohol Safely With a Stoma
Although drinking with a stoma comes with extra considerations, many people with an ostomy can enjoy alcohol in moderation. Remember that it's best to consult with your doctor or ostomy nurse ahead of time to make sure that you consume alcohol with an ostomy safely. There are also some tips that you can follow to help you drink responsibly.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is the golden rule for anyone enjoying a few drinks, but it's even more important for ostomates. Try alternating alcoholic drinks with a glass of water, or get some natural electrolytes from coconut water. Some ostomates find that an electrolyte-rich beverage can help maintain hydration better than water alone. You can also bring out electrolyte packets for rehydration if recommended by your doctor to help keep your sodium and potassium levels balanced.
Monitor Output
Alcohol can change your stoma output in ways that may be unfamiliar at first. If you’re new to drinking with an ostomy, start with a small amount and observe how it affects your stoma. By being mindful, you can gauge your tolerance and adjust things to stay comfortable throughout the night.
Choose Your Alcohol Wisely
Different types of alcohol affect people differently, and knowing how each impacts your body can be helpful.
Beer is carbonated, which can cause bloating and gas—a potential discomfort for ostomates. Some people find that dark or craft beers, which are often higher in alcohol content and unfiltered ingredients, tend to produce more gas than lighter lagers or pilsners. If you’re a beer enthusiast, try starting with a small amount and observing how your body reacts.
Wine, especially dry wines, can be more manageable due to their lower sugar content. However, some people find that red wine can irritate their digestive system, potentially increasing output. If you enjoy wine, start with smaller portions to test your body’s response.
Spirits such as vodka, gin, or whiskey tend to have less impact on stoma output when enjoyed with a non-carbonated, low-sugar mixer. Cocktails, however, are often mixed with sugary ingredients, so try requesting your favorite spirit with soda water or a splash of fruit juice instead.
Avoid Carbonated Beverages
Fizzy drinks, like beer or sparkling wine, can cause bloating or discomfort near your stoma. Opting for a still drink like wine or a distilled spirit with a non-carbonated mixer may be easier on your system. Additionally, low-sugar options can help reduce rapid output changes. So skip the marshmallow martini and try vodka with water and lemon instead.
Be Mindful of Social Situations
Social gatherings with alcohol often involve snacks and prolonged drinking, so it’s easy to lose track of time and forget to check your pouch. Remember to pace yourself with your drinks, and if you're worried about forgetting, set a reminder on your phone every few hours to change your ostomy pouch.
Have Supplies on Hand
Carrying extra ostomy supplies is a good habit, whether at home or out. If a leak happens or output changes unexpectedly, having supplies close by can give you peace of mind and make you feel more comfortable enjoying your evening.
Knowing Your Limits with Alcohol and an Ostomy
Everybody reacts differently to alcohol, and this is no less true for ostomates. Drinking in moderation, knowing your limits, and avoiding alcohol on an empty stomach are all good practices to adopt. Starting with small amounts can help you understand how alcohol affects your stoma without any surprises. Although binge drinking is never recommended, be mindful about your consumption with an ostomy.
If you experience discomfort, increased output, or signs of dehydration, it’s okay to skip the drink and enjoy an alternative beverage. You’ll find what works best for you and your body with practice and patience.
Alternatives to Alcohol for Social Occasions
For ostomates looking to avoid or limit alcohol, there are plenty of non-alcoholic alternatives that allow you to join in the social experience without the potential side effects. There's a huge "sober curious" movement happening, and it's completely normal and okay to refuse a drink. Plus, there are plenty of fun alcohol-free options that you can enjoy:
- Mocktails — Fresh ingredients like mint, lime, ginger, and berries can create delicious drinks that mimic the flavors of popular cocktails without the alcohol.
- Infused Waters — Add fruit, cucumber, or herbs to water for a refreshing twist that keeps you hydrated without adding sugar or carbonation.
- Non-Alcoholic Beers or Wine — Alcohol-free versions of beer or wine allow you to enjoy the taste of your favorite drink without concerns over alcohol content.
Life With an Ostomy
Adjusting to life with a stoma means rethinking certain aspects of your lifestyle, but it doesn’t mean giving up everything you love. Many ostomates find that, with a few mindful habits, they can still enjoy an occasional drink and socialize as they did before. If you ever have doubts or concerns about drinking with a stoma, remember that your healthcare provider is a valuable resource. With good planning and a focus on hydration, you can enjoy your drink responsibly and feel confident managing your ostomy at the same time.
Byram Healthcare is here to help you gain access to the support and resources you need for this journey. Byram provides ostomy supplies built to help improve the lives of those living with ostomies. We also offer convenient, discreet product delivery directly to your door. Contact us today to learn more about your options.
