This topic is about the experiences and concerns of someone who has had an ileostomy, which means they no longer have a colon. They are dealing with daily lower-abdominal cramping and are seeking advice from others who might be in a similar situation. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. The small bowel may start to function like a colon after surgery, and the types of bacteria present can differ. Having "colon-type" bacteria in the small bowel might cause cramping, but completely removing these bacteria could affect the immune system.

2. Some people with or without a colon have experienced constant lower-abdominal cramping.

3. Trying yogurt and commercial prebiotics didn't help much for the person asking the question. They are beginning to think that specific foods or portion sizes might be causing the cramps.

4. To maintain or restore healthy gut flora, some doctors recommend eating yogurt daily or taking a quality probiotic to encourage "good" bacteria after colon removal.

5. Many people report cramping after overeating or consuming high-fat or greasy foods like pizza or tacos. Drinking more fluids can help ease the discomfort.

6. One person avoids large pieces of beef, raw vegetables, and most salads, preferring fish, crackers, and thin-sliced soft apples. Grape juice helps them move food through their system.

7. Another person, who has not had a large intestine since 2014, has not changed their diet much except for increasing fluid and electrolyte intake, and they do not experience cramping.

8. If cramping decreases during a week of consuming liquids or soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and applesauce, but returns with solid foods, it might be worth considering adhesions, scar tissue, or a partial blockage and consulting a surgeon.

9. Staying hydrated and maintaining electrolyte levels by drinking more fluids and supplementing sodium and potassium is crucial to prevent cramps and blockages.

10. For those with a permanent ileostomy, removing the entire colon, rectum, and anus can reduce future complications, though partial retention might still work but could pose risks.

11. Persistent pain is not normal, and seeking professional assessment from an ostomy nurse, dietitian, or getting a second surgical opinion, along with imaging like a CT scan, might be necessary if cramps continue despite dietary changes.