The topic at hand is about preventing "pancaking" in vacuum-sealed ostomy pouches. Pancaking occurs when stool sticks around the stoma because the pouch remains vacuum-flat, making it difficult for the output to move down into the bag. Here are some practical tips and advice to help manage this issue:

1. Let a small amount of air into the pouch:
- For a two-piece system, you can un-snap or slightly separate the top seal, gently pull the plastic layers apart to allow air in, and then re-seal it.
- For a one-piece drainable pouch, open the tail end of a fresh bag, pull the sides apart to let air enter, and then close the tail.

2. Keep the output soft so it slides down easily:
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 50 ounces (about 1.5 liters) of fluids daily to prevent dehydration.
- After emptying the pouch, add a little water directly into it to help loosen the stool, allowing it to drop away from the stoma.
- Reduce the intake of excessive carbohydrates, as they can thicken the stool.
- Consider using natural stool-softening aids like daily prune juice and a magnesium supplement, which have been helpful for many.

3. Balance your hydration:
- Plain water might not be sufficient for everyone. You can add oral rehydration drinks like Gatorade Fit or Prime, or mix hydration powders into your water.
- Sip fluids steadily rather than drinking them all at once to maintain proper fluid and electrolyte levels.

4. Keep in mind that needs can vary between colostomy and ileostomy patients, but preventing thick, sticky stool and avoiding dehydration are important for both.