CAROLINE: Your Ostomy Expert
Embrace the journey of overcoming obstacles with Caroline.
As a seasoned triathlete and ostomy expert, she offers valuable insights and guidance on food and exercising with a stoma.
Caroline's transformation is nothing short of inspiring. Despite undergoing surgery, her perseverance and commitment saw her rise from the ashes, proving that no obstacle is too big to overcome. Her journey serves as a testament to her strength and dedication, making her a credible ostomy expert. From a couch potato to an Ironman competitor,Caroline's journey is filled with awe-inspiring milestones. Here's a timeline of her sporting achievements:
An Inspiring Journey
2010. Started cycling
2012. Completed her first 24-hour cycle event, London to Paris
2014. Overcame her fear of water and learnt to swim
2016. Competed in first Full Ironman race
2018. Completed London Triathlon
2022. Ran London Marathon
Caroline's Philosophy
To achieve any kind of results takes time and consistency; whether it’s changing our habits or changing our lives.
Experiment & Explore
We are all unique and it’s important to understand our bodies; there’s no simple 'one solution' when it comes to food and exercise choices, particularly when you’ve had stoma surgery. What suits one person, won’t suit another. It’s this philosophy that drives Caroline to encourage people to experiment and explore when it comes to food and fitness.
Enjoy Your Food
There’s no reason why someone who has had stoma surgery has to live on a diet of bland or pureed food; no reason why they shouldn’t enjoy vibrant, healthy food that is good fuel for their body.
Exercise as a Pillar of Health
The same applies to fitness. Taking it gently, understanding what your body can or cannot do, but not simply saying ‘I can’t do that’ before you’ve tried. If you enjoyed sport before surgery, you should, with guidance, be able to enjoy some form of sport or fitness after.
Holistic Well-being
Mind-Body Connection: Discussing the psychological benefits of a balanced diet and regular exercise, especially for those adjusting to life with a stoma.
Community and Support: Encouraging engagement with others who share similar experiences, highlighting the importance of community in the journey towards wellness.
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Caroline's Favourite Meals
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Chicken Korma
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Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
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Chicken Katsu Curry
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Frequently Asked Questions
Need help finding an answer to your question? Ask our customer support at info@greggwallace.health
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Can I eat vegetables with a stoma?
Yes, these are an important part of a healthy balanced diet and rich in vitamins and nutrients. When trying new ingredients, make sure you start with small amounts to see how your body tolerates them.
Is there anything I should avoid eating?
Some foods such as nuts, popcorn and mushrooms have historically been some of those that people avoid, for fear of blockages. However, many ostomates do eat all of these items. Consider preparing them in a different way for easier digestion, eg mushroom sauce. And the best advice is Chew, Chew, Chew!
Will exercise be possible?
Getting back to exercise should be done slowly and gently. It is important to strengthen the core and abdominal muscles. Always take professional advice if you intend to take up something strenuous.
Is there a standard guide on what to eat?
No, there’s no ‘one solution’ when it comes to food. Everyone’s surgery and body will be unique. The most important thing is not to fear food but try a little of what you enjoy and see how you tolerate it. If you cannot tolerate it in the early months, perhaps try again further down the line when you’re more fully healed.