The topic at hand is about weight gain after having ileostomy surgery. The person who started the conversation had their surgery in May 2010 and has noticed a significant increase in weight since then. They are curious if others with an ileostomy have experienced similar issues. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

- Gaining weight after surgery is quite common. Many people find they gain weight because they can finally eat well after dealing with illnesses like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking steroids.
- A little extra weight can still mean you are healthy. It's often more important to focus on how you feel rather than just the numbers on the scale.
- If your weight is affecting your health or comfort, aim for a gradual and sustainable weight loss instead of trying crash diets.
- It might be helpful to wait until after major holidays to start a strict diet, as this can make it easier to stick to your plan.
- Regular physical activity can be very beneficial. Whether it's going to the gym, cycling, walking, dancing, or boxing, find an exercise you enjoy to help manage your weight and boost your motivation after surgery.
- Some people find success with portion control. For instance, one person mentioned they lose about 1 pound a month by simply not overeating.
- Remember that changes in fluid levels and the use of steroids can affect your weight. It's important to be patient and accept that your body needs time to stabilize.