Chronic small bowel obstruction from adhesions

I'm sorry that you've had to join this SBO club. I've had problems with them since 2002 and have had 2 bowel resection surgeries and one to clip adhesions over the years. I currently have multiple strictures and dilated loops in my bowels but have managed to stay out of the hospital since I put myself on a low residue diet in 2022. Basically, as others have said, it's no fiber and nothing that's hard to digest like red meat. Chicken is pretty much the only meat I can eat. If you Google low residue diet you will find lists of foods to eat and which to avoid from prestigious medical systems like Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic. And as another said, when you feel like an obstruction may be coming on (when your gut motility slows down) that's the time to switch to a clear liquid diet for a day or two, then move to full liquids and eventually a soft food diet if things are still moving.

Thank you so much for sharing her story and experience I appreciate it. I was so scared when I first heard I have sbo but in this group I am learning so much from others. I am so glad the surgery has helped her so far.

Can anyone recommend a good brand of beef broth? I’ve tried multiple brands, including Cambells, but nothing tastes good. When I was in the hospital I had great beef broth and I can’t seem to find it anywhere

I use Swanson I find it to be the best flavored.

Blenders are great for liquid diets. One can make "cream" soups with all sorts of vegetables. One can make smoothies with all sorts of fruits and some vegetables (like spinach). Protein in liquid meals can come from powdered eggs whites, pea protein powder isolate, milk, or whatever you prefer. Loose hot cereals are in the game too. Fiber can come from the pureed produce and ground chia seed. I use plantain flour for my hot cereal and baking, due to food intolerances. And of course, water and other drinks that work for a person are winners, to help keep things moving.

I had about 5 bouts of SBO and ended up having lysis of adhesions surgery in April of 2023. Your mom’s diet is what was recommended for me too. Low fiber-low residue. I take Miralax every day. Like your mom, I’ve just had to adhere to the strict eating. As my surgeon at the Mayo Clinic said, “You’re never going to be a popcorn girl.” No seeds, no popcorn, no nuts, no fresh vegetables, etc. Thank you for your post. It makes me feel less alone. I haven’t had a SBO since surgery but have had a bout of diverticulitis. Other than that, I think the diet is imperative.

Had a small bowl resection years ago. Been to hospital for obstruction twice in last four years and twice "handled" on my own -- that is by suffering thru and inducing vomiting. (Have also been diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia twice as result of the obstructions induced vomiting.)
My question -- am I the only one who endures vomiting including inducing vomiting ( finger down throat) as an alternative to hospital stay for two/three days for SBO and having an NG tube as a corrective? And your thoughts re the "solution"?
Can't say as I've gotten any gastro doctor's endorsement.

After 3 lysis of adhesions (10 inch inches each, not including the original ) …… I stay hydrated, limit gluten…..eat greens & fruits daily. Machines at the gym. Biking is a staple. Occasionally I mess up and find myself in the ER. NG & I.V……..BUT! No more surgery…..there is a DO NOT ENTER sign on the scar.
They said years ago….your disease won’t kill you. But it will die with you….stay well crew…

I was in hospital for 6 weeks for bowel blockage from previous surgeries, 2 c sections, hernia and adhesions was the problem. They did a removal of blockage by laparoscopic to limit additional problems. Was ok for a year but watching what I eat that is low fiber has given me contipation. Now on Metamucil that has fixed the constipation but at times I can actually feel a lump forming on my right side that feel like food ball. I walk and drink lots of water and it subsides. Any sugggstions, is this the Metamucil ,?
I 80 , fit and no weight problems, suggestion for what to eat that will provide me with constipation relief without Metamucil?

My doctor told me to try miralax which seems to be helping me at the moment but I am still pretty new to this. I meet with him today and am going to ask for a referral to a dietician/nutritionist at the mayo clinic in Phoenix. It's a few hours away from me but I am willing to make the drive for knowledge and help. I will let you know if I learn anything new.
I have read a lot about massaging your stomach as well, people say it seems to help, I've been massaging mine just to get used to doing it and maybe help a little