Topic Explanation
The forum discussion centers around a user who recently had an ileostomy and is seeking advice on whether it is safe to consume yogurt, despite their surgeon advising against dairy. The user is interested in yogurt for its calcium and nutritional benefits and is looking for insights from others with similar experiences.

Advice and Insights

- Non-Dairy Yogurt Alternatives:
- Coconut milk yogurt (e.g., So Delicious) and almond milk yogurt are good alternatives that still provide probiotics.
- Lactose-free yogurt is available and can be a suitable option for those who are lactose intolerant.

- Personal Experiences with Dairy:
- Several users with ileostomies reported consuming yogurt without issues.
- Some users mentioned consuming other dairy products like milk and cheese without problems, while others had to avoid them due to personal tolerance levels.

- Recommended Yogurt Brands:
- Oikos and Ratio protein yogurts are highlighted for their high protein content.
- Siggi's yogurt is recommended for being all-natural, low in sugar, and high in protein.

- General Dietary Advice:
- Start with small amounts of yogurt or any new food to see how your body reacts before increasing the quantity.
- Avoid introducing two new foods at the same time to identify any potential issues with specific foods.

- Individual Tolerance:
- Dietary tolerance can vary greatly among individuals with ileostomies. It is often a matter of trial and error to determine what works best for each person.
- Some users found that fermentation in products like yogurt and sharp cheeses made them more tolerable.

- Encouragement and Support:
- Users shared personal experiences of initial anxiety and challenges with managing an ileostomy, emphasizing that it gets easier with time and practice.
- Practical tips included switching to more user-friendly products like bags with roll-up Velcro strips instead of barrett clips.

- Additional Tips:
- Homemade shakes with yogurt can be a good way to incorporate it into the diet.
- Consulting with healthcare providers and experimenting with different foods can help in finding a suitable diet.