This topic is about navigating dietary choices after having an ileostomy, specifically focusing on foods with casings like hot dogs and sausages. The original poster, who had an ileostomy in 2017, was advised to avoid such foods and is seeking advice from others in similar situations.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Many people with ileostomies or colostomies have been able to enjoy foods like hot dogs, sausages, popcorn, and nuts after their initial healing period. However, some choose to avoid these foods due to past blockages or concerns about obstructions.

2. Chewing and portion control are crucial. It's recommended to chew food very thoroughly, with one surgeon suggesting 60 chews per bite. Start with small portions of any food you're unsure about, and if you tolerate it well, you can gradually increase the amount. Try a food up to three times before deciding if it's problematic for you.

3. Dietary restrictions are often more stringent in the early weeks or months following surgery to allow the gut to heal. Over time, many people can return to a more normal diet, but individual tolerance can vary.

4. Those with ileostomies need to be more cautious than those with colostomies due to a higher risk of blockages. Some people have experienced blockages from adhesions or poorly chewed food, so extra care is advised.

5. For foods with casings, consider these strategies:
- Opt for skinless products like Nathan’s or Hebrew National Skinless Hot Dogs, Eckrich Skinless Sausage, or Hy-Vee Skinless Brats.
- Peel off the casing from sausages or salami, as thicker casings are easier to remove.
- Natural sheep casings are thinner and may be safer than synthetic ones.
- If eating standard products, chew thoroughly until no casing pieces remain.

6. Corn and other hard-to-digest foods can be triggers. Introduce them cautiously. For corn, choose small-kernel ears and microwave them for two minutes per ear, then squeeze them out of the husk. Large amounts of roughage like corn, spinach, raw carrots, and potato skins can cause blockages.

7. Gas-producing or carbonated drinks are generally tolerated but may require more frequent venting of the ostomy bag.

8. For more information, resources like the "Eric the Vegan Osteomate" website/blog can be helpful for learning about blockages and diet management.

Overall, many people find they can eventually eat what they like by chewing thoroughly, testing foods gradually, and staying vigilant about their body's responses.