This topic is about a new ileostomy patient who is getting used to life with an ostomy and is looking for advice on using a Stealth Belt and finding affordable ways to control odor. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:

1. Stealth Belt Use:
- Many people find Stealth Belts comfortable, especially for active outdoor work. However, if the belt is too tight or the output is thick, it can cause pancaking, where the output stays at the top of the pouch. To help with this, try wearing the belt a bit looser, leave a small amount of air in the pouch, and gently massage the waste downward.
- A vertical Stealth Belt is often preferred for easier emptying, while a horizontal one might work better if the output is more liquid.
- Consider alternatives that reduce pressure on the pouch, such as:
- A belt with a cut-out hole for the pouch to hang freely, which is also good for swimming and hot climates.
- Wraps from Ostomysecrets.
- Movibrace support belt, which some are planning to try.
- Pouchwear diagonal support belt, which uses gravity to move output but may be less discreet under clothing.
- Easy Fit Depends for light support and coverage.
- Overall, having some form of support is better than none, especially for active jobs.

2. Odor Control and Lubrication:
- A simple and cheap solution is to sprinkle baking soda into the pouch after emptying, which many find effective.
- Some recommended commercial deodorants include:
- Na'Scent, which is highly praised and can be more affordable if bought in bulk from their website.
- Hollister Adapt Lubricating Deodorant, available in single-use packets.
- Safe n’ Simple products, such as their Pouch Deodorizer and Assure C Lubricating Ostomy Pouch Deodorant, which also helps reduce pancaking.
- M9, though some prefer Assure C.
- For DIY or low-cost lubricants that also help with odor, try adding a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, or lavender-scented baby oil each time you empty the pouch.
- Dietary changes can also help, like taking chlorophyll tablets or eating more leafy greens to naturally reduce stool odor. Be aware that fish can increase odor, and red Gatorade can temporarily change the color of the output.

3. Where to Buy:
- Supplies can be purchased from Amazon, eBay, Edgepark, and Na'Scent’s website. Some brands might be covered by insurance.

4. General Tips:
- Pay attention to how different foods affect the color and odor of your output to avoid unnecessary trips to the ER.
- As you get used to the feel of thicker output, you'll learn when to gently "pet" the belt to help move the waste downward.