Background: Diet is a common concern among people with an ileostomy as it can be associated with serious and burdensome complications, for example, dehydration and obstruction, and dietary advice is often unsatisfactory. In this study, we explored healthcare professionals' (HCPs) perspectives on dietary advice for ileostomy management. Methods: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with HCPs, from multiple professions, who provide dietary advice to patients with an ileostomy. A framework approach to thematic analysis was used to understand and compare HCPs' experiences, beliefs and attitudes that influence how dietary advice is provided and the effectiveness of dietary management. Results: Findings from interviews with 21 HCPs, across 3 hospitals, related to 7 key themes: tailoring of dietary advice to the patient, patient autonomy and communication, HCP knowledge and understanding, patient pathway, mixed messages, access to formal and social support and patient understanding and relationship with dietary advice. Profession was a strong determinator of what and how dietary advice is provided; however, closer team working increased consistency in dietary advice. Lack of scientific research and consensus contributes to mixed messages and reduced confidence in dietary advice for people with an ileostomy. Due to individual differences between patients, experiential learning with diet is key to self‐management and is encouraged in a controlled way by HCPs; however, a lack of 'one‐size‐fits‐all' guidance can be difficult for some. Conclusion: The study findings should inform HCPs caring for patients with an ileostomy, and researchers designing and evaluating interventions, to improve how patients receive dietary advice for ileostomy management. Key points: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 21 healthcare professionals (HCP) to explore their perspectives on dietary advice for people with an ileostomy.A lack of research and expert consensus contributes to mixed messages and reduced confidence in dietary advice for people with an ileostomy.Greater interdisciplinary working increases consistency in dietary advice for ileostomy management.HCPs' role involves providing guidance and support to people with an ileostomy while they develop the ability to self‐manage their diet through experiential learning.This study provides a detailed picture of the provision of dietary advice to people with an ileostomy, within the NHS, which should encourage HCPs to reflect on potential pitfalls as well as components of good practice, to improve how patients receive dietary advice for ileostomy management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]