This topic is about a new permanent colostomate who faced challenges with their ostomy output and found a way to manage it effectively. They were dealing with very thick, pasty output that was causing blockages in their pouching system. Here's how they tackled the issue:

1. They started lubricating every new pouch and each time they emptied it with mineral oil. This was the only lubricant they used.

2. They switched to a high-fiber diet, which included whole-wheat and whole-grain products, beans, brown rice, and fruits and vegetables with their peels.

3. They aimed for a daily intake of 30 grams of fiber and kept track of their intake and output using a detailed spreadsheet over a month.

By following these steps, they achieved a stool consistency that matched Type 3 on the Bristol Stool Chart, which is considered optimal. They noted that while many resources explain the Bristol Chart, they don't provide detailed dietary guidance, so they had to experiment to find what worked best for them. They are willing to share their spreadsheet with anyone interested.

Here are some additional insights and advice from the community:

- Many members praised the systematic approach and highlighted the importance of taking control by researching, experimenting, and tracking results to adapt after surgery.

- The value of community forums was emphasized for sharing practical tips that medical teams might not cover.

- A member inquired if the Bristol Stool Chart is useful for ileostomates as well as colostomates, suggesting further research might be needed.

- There was general encouragement that while the learning curve can be steep, persistence and shared experiences are beneficial for both new and experienced ostomates.