This topic is about someone who recently transitioned from an ileostomy to a permanent colostomy and is now dealing with a strong, unpleasant odor from the colostomy output. This has become a concern, especially when visiting friends, despite using scented candles. The person is seeking advice on how to manage or eliminate the odor. Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Normal variation and reassurance:
- Many people with a colostomy experience little to no odor, but it can vary from person to person. The stronger smell is often due to the higher bacteria content in colostomy output compared to ileostomy output.

2. Check medications and health status:
- If you have recently taken antibiotics or have a bacterial infection, these can temporarily increase the odor from your pouch.

3. Dietary management:
- Foods that might increase odor include garlic, onions, eggs, beans, asparagus, strong cheese, coffee, fish, cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cucumbers, green peppers, radishes, prunes, turnips, milk, peanut butter, alcoholic drinks, and certain vitamins or drugs.
- Foods and drinks that can help reduce odor include cranberry juice, blueberry products, buttermilk, parsley, tomato juice, orange juice, yogurt, spinach, food-grade peppermint, and chlorophyll supplements.
- Keeping a food diary can help identify which foods trigger odors for you, so you can avoid them before social events.

4. In-pouch deodorants and lubricants:
- Consider using products like Hollister M9 Drops, Hollister M9 Odor Eliminating Spray, Be Free Lubricant & Deodorizer sachets, Hollister Brava Lubricant & Deodorant, ConvaTec Lubricant-Deodorant, or even Tic Tac mints as a pouch deodorizer.
- You can contact manufacturers for free samples of these products to try them out.

5. Room and bathroom odor control:
- Zep Deodorizing Spray can be effective immediately after emptying the pouch.
- While scented candles can help, they might not be necessary if in-pouch deodorants are working well.

6. Additional practical tips:
- Empty the pouch more frequently to prevent odor build-up.
- When going out, carry a small travel bottle of in-pouch deodorant or wipes and an air-freshening spray.
- Remember that everyone’s waste has an odor, so try not to let this concern limit your social activities.

7. Caution:
- If using peppermint, ensure it is a food-grade flavoring oil, as essential peppermint oil can irritate the gut.