Community Forum

Have a question, or want to share your own tips and experiences? Join the discussion in the community forum. You must be registered to participate. Our forums are moderated by Crohn's & Colitis Foundation staff to facilitate a safe environment.

weight gain/loss after ileostomy surgery?


Sun, October 14, 2012 6:06 PM

I was just wondering if anyone finds it hard to put on weight after having ileostomy surgery?  Or is it more depending what you eat? 

FPO phishgurl
Joined Oct 13, 2010

Thu, October 18, 2012 10:09 AM

 Reply posted for phishgurl.

After surgery, it took a few weeks before I really started gaining weight.  I was a sickly 87 pounds when I got home from the hospital (normal weight for me was typically between 120 and 130).  Once my appetite returned, I was gaining at least 2 pounds a week.  I was eating a pretty typical diet - although more refined, processed foods than I would typically like since I was a little anxious to try healthier foods like salads and fresh fruits at first.  I definitely enjoyed eating ice cream every day!  I was also supplementing with a protein shake (protein powder with whole milk and a banana or peanut butter) to try to get my weight up.   I seemed to plateau around 115 pounds, and now, after takedown, have lost a few pounds (likely due to lower appetite).  I think I will probably end up at around 115 or 120 once my appetite comes back fully and I get back into the habit of exercising.

FPO amandanl82
Joined Sep 10, 2012

Related Topics

Small bowel resection
Author Image jess123
Joined Jan 9, 2022

Hi, I'm preparing to have an ileocecal resecti....

read more

Flap Surgery
Author Image Kwarner1charter
Joined Feb 14, 2023

Had surgery on 10/27 after being in the hospital m....

read more

Jpouch Surgery
Author Image guillermo80
Joined Oct 11, 2016

I just had my first surgery out of three stage sur....

read more