The topic is about changes in eating habits and appetite after undergoing a total colectomy with an end ileostomy. The person who shared their experience is concerned about needing to eat frequently, almost every two hours, and wonders if this is normal. They also worry about their ileostomy pouch filling up quickly and the potential for odor when they are away from home. Here are some helpful insights and advice for anyone experiencing similar issues:

- It's quite common to feel hungry more often after ileostomy or colostomy surgery. Many people find they need to eat every 2 to 4 hours as their small bowel adjusts. This usually stabilizes over time, sometimes taking months or even years.

- Staying hydrated is very important since the colon, which absorbs a lot of water, is no longer there.
- Drink plenty of plain water and fluids with electrolytes. Gatorade Fit is one option that some people find helpful.
- Sip your drinks slowly rather than gulping them down to help your body absorb the fluids better.
- Keep an eye on the color of your urine; aim for a pale yellow or clear color as a sign of good hydration. Dark urine means you should drink more.
- Be aware that severe dehydration can lead to fainting, and in some cases, hospitalization might be necessary.

- Changes in weight can vary:
- It's typical to lose some weight initially, often between 20 to 60 pounds. Some people later find it challenging to regain weight, while others may struggle to avoid gaining too much.
- To gain or maintain weight, consider eating calorie-dense foods, high-quality proteins, smoothies with ingredients like almond milk, banana, and protein powder, chocolate, or even your favorite adult beverages. Nutrition powders like Ka’Chava can also be useful.
- If you're gaining too much weight, try halving restaurant portions, limiting nighttime eating, and cutting back on junk foods.

- When it comes to food choices and digestion:
- Everyone's digestion time is different. Some foods might pass through on an empty stomach in 2 to 4 hours.
- Foods high in fiber can bulk up your output and slow down transit time, but they might also cause more "churning." It's a good idea to experiment and see what works best for you.
- Some foods that commonly cause issues include raw cabbage, celery, other tough raw veggies, corn, and lettuce.
- Chew your food thoroughly to help with absorption and focus on nutrient-dense options like organ meats and balanced macronutrients.

- For managing your pouch and dealing with odor, continue using odor-control tablets or drops. It's normal for the bag to fill up quickly, especially during the first year or more.

- Here are some practical tips for when you're out and about:
- Fast-food restaurants often have clean restrooms, while gas station toilets might not be as reliable.
- Some public places, like the USS Intrepid in NYC, are known for having exceptionally clean facilities.
- It's okay if emptying your pouch is noisy; try to let go of modesty and focus on your comfort.

- Overall, adjusting both physically and mentally takes time. Be patient with yourself, keep track of your personal patterns, and don't hesitate to reach out to the community for ongoing support.