This topic is about someone who has had a colostomy for nine months and is currently taking Miralax daily to help with bowel movements. They are looking for ways to reduce or stop their reliance on this laxative. Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:

1. It's not common for people with a colostomy to need daily laxatives unless dealing with a temporary issue like a blockage.

2. Hydration:
- Aim to drink more water and other fluids, with a suggested minimum of 6–8 glasses a day.
- Eating foods with high water content can also help keep stools soft.

3. Diet adjustments:
- Increase your intake of natural dietary fiber by eating fresh fruits, uncooked or minimally processed vegetables, and high-fiber cereals like All-Bran.
- Some specific foods that might help include pears, which have been used for constipation relief, and bananas, which can affect output differently for each person.

4. Activity:
- Try to take a 20-minute walk every day, as regular movement can stimulate bowel activity.

5. Stimulants:
- Moderate coffee intake can help prompt bowel movements, but be cautious as too much can lead to diarrhea.

6. Self-monitoring and gradual change:
- Keep a detailed diary of your food and drink intake to see how different items affect your output.
- Make dietary changes slowly and taper off medication gradually rather than stopping it abruptly.

7. Professional support:
- Discuss your plans with a physician and consider getting a referral to a dietitian who has experience with stoma management, as not all dietitians may have this specific knowledge.

8. Online resources:
- Look for output-effect food charts online, as they can guide you in choosing foods that help achieve the desired stool consistency.