Topic Explanation
The forum discussion revolves around the best types of beans to consume for individuals with an ileostomy, with a focus on minimizing gas production. The original poster has had an ileostomy for 14 years and is looking to introduce more legumes into their diet without causing excessive gas, which can lead to uncomfortable and disruptive situations, such as the need for middle-of-the-night bag changes.

Advice and Insights

1. General Tips for Reducing Gas from Beans:
- Soak beans overnight before cooking to reduce gas.
- Drain and rinse beans after soaking.
- Boil beans and discard the first lot of water.
- Cook beans with a strip of kombu to soften the skin.
- Add a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to the cooking water.
- Use a slow cooker for a long, slow cook.

2. Types of Beans and Their Effects:
- Green Beans: Generally safe and produce less gas.
- Runner Beans and Sugar Snap Peas: Versatile and less likely to cause gas, especially when young and properly prepared.
- Refried Beans: Better tolerated than pinto or black beans.
- Pinto and Borlotti Beans: Easier to digest for some individuals.
- Black Beans: Can be tolerated if chewed properly.

3. Portion Control and Monitoring:
- Start with small portions of beans and gradually increase the amount.
- Chew beans well to aid digestion.
- Monitor the body's reaction to different types of beans and adjust accordingly.

4. Additional Strategies:
- Eat gassy foods earlier in the day to avoid nighttime issues.
- Combine beans with carbohydrates like toast, wraps, or rice to potentially aid digestion.
- Use anti-gas tablets before consuming gassy foods or drinks.
- Some individuals find a little air in the bag helpful to keep the output clear of the stoma.

5. Personal Experiences and Preferences:
- Some individuals have no issues with beans and gas, while others need to manage their consumption carefully.
- Experimenting with different recipes and cooking methods can help find what works best.
- Pressure cooking beans can also help reduce gas.

6. Alternative Legumes and Foods:
- Tofu, made from soybeans, is often recommended on a low-fiber diet and may be better tolerated than other beans.

7.