Topic Explanation
The discussion revolves around the discovery of Quest protein chips by an individual with an ileostomy. The person's ostomy nurse recommended increasing protein intake, initially suggesting whey protein powder. However, the individual found protein powder monotonous and missed having chips as a salty snack. Upon trying Quest protein chips, they found that the chips, despite their initial crunch, melt down and do not pose a risk of sharp pieces being swallowed. The individual is excited about this discovery and is curious if other ostomates have tried these chips and what their experiences are.

Advice and Insights
- General Experience with Chips:
- Several participants mentioned that they eat regular chips without any issues, provided they chew them well.
- One participant specifically mentioned using chips for thickening and for the salt content needed.

- Specific Experience with Protein Chips:
- The original poster (Lee) found that Quest protein chips melt down after the initial crunch, preventing sharp pieces from being swallowed and causing no issues with their ileostomy.
- Lee also noted that they have not found pieces of the protein chips in their ostomy bag, indicating proper digestion and breakdown.

- Chewing and Digestion:
- Multiple participants emphasized the importance of chewing chips thoroughly to avoid seeing undigested pieces in the ostomy bag.
- One participant humorously noted that if they don't let the pieces melt down enough, they will see those pieces in their bag.

- Alternative Recommendations:
- One participant mentioned that their ostomy nurse recommended Cheetos puffs to slow down output, but it did not work for them. Instead, they found pumpkin and Imodium effective for slowing down output.

- Protein Intake:
- The original poster and another participant highlighted the need to increase protein intake as recommended by their ostomy nurses, with the original poster finding Quest protein chips a suitable alternative to whey protein powder.

- Personal Preferences:
- One participant mentioned a preference for Smith's Crisps, indicating that different types of chips might work differently for individuals.

- General Advice:
- A participant advised learning to chew food thoroughly, especially with an ileostomy, to ensure proper digestion and avoid complications.