This topic is about an individual who has been living with an ileostomy for 14 years and is interested in incorporating more legumes into their diet. However, they are concerned about the potential for excessive gas, which could inflate their pouch and lead to leaks, especially at night. They are seeking advice on which beans might cause less gas.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Beans that are generally considered "safer" and produce less gas:
- Plain green beans.
- Runner beans and sugar-snap peas, especially when young pods are lightly steamed or stir-fried.
- Pinto and borlotti beans; some people also tolerate black beans well.

2. Beans that are often associated with more gas:
- Most dried beans unless they are specially prepared.
- Refried beans, with some reporting significant overnight gas, though others find them easier to digest than whole pinto or black beans.
- Red kidney beans, as their skins can remain tough and cause issues.

3. Preparation methods that may help reduce gas:
- Soak dried beans overnight, then drain, rinse, and discard the first boil water.
- Cook beans slowly over a long period or use a pressure cooker.
- Add a strip of kombu seaweed to the cooking water to soften skins and potentially reduce gas.
- Add 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda while cooking to soften the beans.

4. Eating strategies to consider:
- Introduce new legumes in small portions, chew well, and monitor your output.
- Pair beans with rice, toast, wraps, or other carbohydrates, as some find this aids digestion.
- Consume gassy foods at lunchtime so any gas is gone before bedtime.
- Keep a little air in the pouch, which can help keep the output clear of the stoma.

5. Symptom management aids:
- Use over-the-counter anti-gas tablets, taking a double dose before meals known to cause gas.

6. General observations:
- Individual tolerance to beans varies widely; some people with an ileostomy report no gas problems at all.
- Tofu, which is soy-based and low in fiber, is usually well tolerated and often recommended after surgery.
- For those who enjoy gardening, growing runner beans or sugar-snap peas can provide a longer picking season and better control over pod maturity.