This topic is about managing inconsistent output frequency after an ileostomy. The person experiencing this issue is dealing with cycles of very high output, which require frequent bathroom visits, followed by periods of little to no output except for gas. They are looking for ways to achieve more consistent and predictable output.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. **Diet Examination**: Keep a detailed food diary to track what you eat, including portion sizes and meal timing. Note how each food affects the volume and consistency of your output.

2. **Sugar Intake**: High-sugar foods can lead to liquid output. Consider reducing sugar intake and using bulking agents like Metamucil (psyllium) to help thicken the output. Some people are trying products like Dattex for stool thickening.

3. **Nuts and Seeds**: These can cause alternating high output and blockages. If you consume them, keep portions small and eat them with other foods to help them move through your system. Be aware of early signs of blockage, and know that gentle irrigation can sometimes help in hospital settings.

4. **Problem Foods**: The advice to "eat anything" can be misleading. Common foods that may cause issues include raw vegetables, cooked greens like spinach, and nuts and seeds, which are often hidden in breads and snacks.

5. **Routine Establishment**: Eating the same foods at the same times each day can help regulate output. For example, one person shared their routine: a usual breakfast with 8 oz of prune juice mixed with a quarter dose of Miralax and 2 pints of water, leading to two predictable empties within 1.5 hours and minimal output for the rest of the day.

6. **Simple Meals**: Keep meals simple, nutritious, and low in irritants. Avoid grazing and snacking between meals until you understand your patterns better.

7. **Hydration**: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids, especially water, to support thicker and more consistent output.

8. **Blockage Monitoring**: Keep an eye out for signs of a true blockage, such as prolonged periods with no output, pain, or nausea. Seek medical attention promptly if these symptoms worsen.