Ask Brenda Watson

I had Ulcerative Colitis 22 years ago and had my colon and rectum removed.  They created an "S" Pouch using some of my small intestine so I have an internal pouch.  I need to be careful of what I eat, but also for the past 20 years or so have had to intubate in order to empty the pouch (This was not supposed to be) This I need to do about 3 times per day and more lately in the middle of the night as well.  Perhaps I am getting older, now 46, and need to do more situps/pushups to keep my core strong?  I feel I need to start taking vitamins which i never really do.  I can't eat alot of healthy foods because of potential blockage.  When I intubate, I have to make sure the tube does not get blocked so i can evacuate the pouch.  So things like potato skins, celery, raw fruits/veges, are really a no-no.  Any suggestions you can make with regard to diet and also and what issues you may see down the road with me continuing to have to intubate for the rest of my life would be helpful.  I sometimes wish i had kept my ostomy and external bag…which i had temporarily after my first two surgeries.  But that was not alot of fun either.  Thanks for any suggestions.