Let's talk about enjoying watermelon when you have an ileostomy. A person shared their experience of eating two bowls of watermelon and later finding a small "ball" in their pouch. They wondered if it was undigested fiber and now only eat a few bites at a time. They asked if watermelon is safe for people with an ileostomy and if others have noticed similar things in their output.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Many people with ileostomies and colostomies eat watermelon without any issues. Some even enjoy it regularly.

2. It's a good idea to start with small amounts of watermelon and gradually increase to see how your body reacts. Moderation is key when trying any new food with an ileostomy.

3. Opt for seedless watermelon, as undigested seeds might be the cause of the "ball" found in the pouch.

4. Watermelon is low in fiber and generally easy to digest, so the ball was probably not from watermelon fiber.

5. A tip for staying hydrated: Sprinkling a little salt on watermelon can enhance its sweetness and provide sodium, which helps maintain hydration along with the fruit's natural glucose and water content.

6. For a different texture, try freezing watermelon cubes. This might be easier to manage and a fun way to enjoy the fruit.

7. In the early months after surgery, a low-residue diet is recommended. It's common to have liquid output from fruits and vegetables while your intestine heals. Over time, output consistency usually improves, so reintroduce foods slowly and identify any personal trigger foods.

8. If you experience watery output long-term, remember that high-water foods like watermelon can still cause looser output, especially if part or all of the colon is removed. To manage this, balance watermelon with water-absorbing foods like rice and consider timing your consumption to avoid disruptions, such as avoiding it at work or first thing in the morning.