Why would high-fiber foods be restricted in a patient with a colostomy?

High-fiber foods may be restricted in a patient with a colostomy primarily because they can increase gas production. For individuals who have undergone colostomy, managing gas and odor is important for comfort and social situations. High-fiber foods tend to ferment in the intestines, leading to the production of gas; this can be particularly problematic for someone adjusting to a colostomy. Moreover, some high-fiber foods can take longer to digest and may cause increased bowel activity, which could lead to discomfort or complications in a patient whose digestive system has been altered.

While the other options address potential concerns with diet, they do not relate directly to the specific issues that a high-fiber diet can pose for colostomy patients. For instance, protein deficiency is not a direct consequence of fiber intake, and cholesterol levels are typically more influenced by the type of fats consumed rather than fiber. Thus, the focus on managing gas is the key reason for restricting high-fiber foods in this context.