This topic is about finding safe and convenient snack and beverage options for people who have recently had an ileostomy. The aim is to choose foods and drinks that help manage output consistency and prevent blockages. Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Everyone's tolerance to different foods can vary. It's a good idea to introduce one new food at a time and chew it thoroughly. Loose output is common shortly after surgery, but it usually improves over time. Try foods a few times before deciding if they work for you.

2. Be cautious with certain foods that might cause blockages. Sausage casing and dense meats can be problematic, so it's best to remove the casing and chew well. Doughy pizza crusts, lots of melted cheese, and dense bread can also be risky. If you eat these, take small bites, chew well, and sip fluids between bites. Leeks, onions, and other gassy vegetables might still cause gas.

3. For snacks that can help thicken output, consider peanut butter or cheese on crackers, bananas, applesauce, Jell-O gelatin cubes, boiled or scrambled eggs, tortilla chips with guacamole or hummus, hard-boiled eggs with salt, and plain salted crisps or pretzels.

4. Staying hydrated is important. Sip fluids throughout the day instead of taking large gulps. The small intestine absorbs water best when the fluid contains a specific balance of salt and glucose. You can make a homemade oral rehydration solution with water, salt, and sugar. Be cautious with drinks high in sugar, as they can worsen dehydration. Low-sodium V-8 or tomato juice with added seasonings can help replace lost potassium and sodium. Kefir has mixed reviews, so try it in small amounts. Metatone tonic contains sugar, alcohol, and sodium, so check if it fits within your dietary limits. Be careful with drinks containing artificial sweeteners, as they might loosen output.

5. Specific foods discussed include rice cakes, which are generally well-tolerated, and bacon, where crispy strips are easier to digest. Smoked salmon and other smoked fish are usually fine, but chew well. Sausage rolls and pies can be eaten by some without issues, but it's best to remove the casing and chew thoroughly.

6. To gain weight, try eating your main meal at midday when output is slower. Focus on calorie-dense, low-residue foods like cheese, peanut butter, eggs, smooth nut butters, and avocado. Snack frequently on energy-dense, low-fiber options and add starchy sides like white rice, pasta, and white bread as tolerated.

7. Some brands and products mentioned include V-8 vegetable juice, Tesco "More Vits" vitamin water, Metatone Tonic, and WHO Oral Rehydration Solution. Be cautious with high-sugar drinks like Coca-Cola and Gatorade.

8. Keep a food and output diary to track what works for you. Re-test foods that were previously troublesome after a few weeks, as tolerance often improves with healing. If you have diabetes or are experiencing weight loss, consider consulting a dietitian experienced with ostomies.