Topic Explanation
The forum discussion centers around a user named BobK expressing gratitude for the support and advice received during his early days of adjusting to a new colostomy, which was placed on October 1, 2019. BobK initially sought advice on dealing with pancaking, finding suitable clothing, and understanding the occurrence of mucus. He shares that his body has acclimated, his diet is controlled, and he has found clothing that works well with his ostomy. BobK emphasizes the importance of patience, diligence, and acceptance in adapting to life with an ostomy.

Advice and Insights

#Diet and Pancaking
1. Diet Adjustments:
- BobK: Adopt a high-fiber diet to achieve the desired consistency and form of output. Avoid processed foods and use soy milk instead of dairy. Include fruits like pears, apples, and small mandarin oranges with the skin, potatoes with the skin, whole wheat products, beans, rice, and homemade hummus.
- Keepers51: High fiber diet helped in preventing pancaking. Avoid processed foods and stay hydrated.

2. Dietary Challenges:
- Morgan: Struggles with controlling output despite using Imodium and avoiding too much fruit and fiber. Prefers a healthy diet but finds it challenging to be vegetarian.

#Appliance and Pouch Selection
3. Pouch and Flange Options:
- Terry: Suggests trying different brands and types of pouches, such as Hollister, and considering convex flanges instead of flat ones to improve adherence and reduce pancaking.
- BobK: Recommends Hollister convex pouches, specifically the #11704 for its smaller footprint and flexibility.

4. Alternative Brands:
- Terry: Suggests trying Salts samples for a soft convex pouch, especially for users in the U.K.

#Practical Tips
5. Bag Lubrication:
- BobK: Crinkle the bag to soften its surface and lubricate it with mineral oil to reduce resistance and prevent output from sticking.

6. Clothing Choices:
- BobK: Wear clothing that does not press the bag against the stoma, such as mid-rise jeans with an elastic waist and untucked shirts.

#Psychological and Emotional Support
7. Acceptance and Coping:
- BobK: Emphasizes the importance of patience, diligence, and acceptance in adapting to life with an ost