Topic Explanation
The forum discussion revolves around the issue of dehydration following an ileostomy. The original poster (OP) struggles with staying hydrated, as they do not enjoy drinking water. They have tried drinking large amounts of water, which led to an imbalance in sodium levels. The OP discovered that milk might be a good alternative for hydration and is seeking advice and solutions from the community.

Advice and Insights

1. Milk as a Hydration Solution:
- Milk, especially skim milk, is highly recommended for hydration.
- Be cautious if lactose intolerant, as it could worsen dehydration.

2. Alternative Hydration Solutions:
- Electrolyte Drinks:
- Gatorade Zero, Gatorade FIT, and Powerade Zero are good options.
- Pedialyte is favored for its electrolyte balance.
- Liquid IV can be added to water for better hydration.
- Homemade Oral Rehydration Solutions:
- Recipes include a mix of sugar, salt, baking soda, and potassium.
- These solutions are effective in maintaining hydration.
- Other Beverages:
- V-8 Juice for potassium and sodium.
- Body Armor for electrolytes and coconut water.
- Orange squash (a flavored drink) can be a palatable alternative to plain water.

3. Hydration Tips:
- Avoid drinking large quantities of plain water as it can dilute electrolytes.
- Drink in medium sips rather than chugging to improve absorption.
- Monitor urine color to gauge hydration levels; aim for a light wheat color.
- Consider adding a small amount of salt (like Celtic salt) to help cells absorb water better.

4. Personal Experiences and Preferences:
- Some users prefer drinking water and have adjusted to it over time.
- Others find that consuming what they crave, including milk and other beverages, works for them.
- Monitoring and adjusting based on individual needs and responses is crucial.

5. Practical Considerations:
- Be mindful of the sugar content in hydration drinks.
- Some users find chemical sweeteners in hydration products difficult to tolerate.
- It's important to find a balance that works for each individual, as hydration needs can vary.

6. Miscellaneous Tips:
- Eating hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables can also contribute to overall hydration.
- Some users have found